A nucleic acid testing service for the novel coronavirus outbreak -- allowing the subjects to take samples without getting out of their car -- was recently opened in Harbin New Zone in Harbin, capital city of China’s northernmost Heilongjiang province, local officials said.

Persons undergoing nucleic acid testing can make an appointment online in advance.

After driving to the sampling point at the scheduled time, medical staff will step forward to confirm the identity information and collect samples from people sitting in the car.

Officials said it only takes 6 seconds to complete the nucleic acid sampling -- and up to 6 minutes to complete the whole information check and sample collection process.

People can get the test report in as fast as 6 hours.

Officials said the start of the service will promote the zone as a place for investment and boost its industrial development.

Harbin New Zone is China's only national new zone, with the theme of cooperation with nearby Russia and the northernmost national new zone. Officials say it plays an important role in promoting Sino-Russian economic cooperation.