DOT looking to the future with self-driving tech or ADS “Automated Driving Systems”

Automated Driving Systems (ADS) are increasingly being tested and introduced onto public roadways. Regulators are gathering input from developers of automated vehicles, end users, the public and other stakeholders to produce the “Federal Automated Vehicle Policy 3.0.”

This is being done by three notices to be filed in the Federal Register in the coming weeks by agencies within the DOT.

- First notice: Issued by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, seeks to identify existing vehicle regulations that could impede testing and commercialization of driverless vehicles. NHTSA “is primarily concerned with vehicles that do not have the means for human driving (a steering wheel and brake and accelerator pedals).” The agency is also seeking input on semi-autonomous vehicles that do require human interaction.
  - To shape regulations or exemptions from existing regulations regarding occupant safety
  - Update regulations for mirror positioning, on-vehicle signals like brake lights and other factors surrounding development of “unique configurations”
  - How manufacturers of automated vehicle technology can certify that their systems meet safety thresholds

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- Second notice: Issued by the Federal Highway Administration, seeks to determine what is needed from an infrastructure standpoint to help support the testing and use of automated vehicles.
  - Roadway needs, such as lane markings, signage and signals, as well as the so-called digital infrastructure needed to enable vehicle-to-infrastructure communication.
  - Cybersecurity concerns, states’ and localities’ concerns about investment and necessary research for infrastructure needs relative to deployment of autonomous vehicles.