Mexican Media Brands
California to Allow Testing of Self-Driving Delivery Trucks
The California Dept. of Motor Vehicles this month proposed a rule that would allow self-driving light-duty delivery trucks to be tested on public roads.
#regulations
Share
The California Dept. of Motor Vehicles this month proposed a rule that would allow self-driving light-duty delivery trucks to be tested on public roads.
The state already allows such tests for autonomous passenger vehicles. Under the new proposal, companies also would be able to test Class 1 and 2 “mototrucks” (utility vehicles and vans weighing less than 10,001 lbs and primarily used to transport goods). The state continues to prohibit larger autonomous trucks from being tested on public roads.
As with current rules for cars, companies would have to apply for and be granted a permit before they could test a light-duty autonomous truck in California. Separate permits are required for testing vehicles with or without a backup driver onboard.
Companies testing the trucks will not be allowed to charge delivery or transportation fees until the technology is approved for broader use. Comments on the proposed regulation are sought through the end of May, at which time a public hearing will be held.
To date, 62 companies and nearly 700 passenger vehicles have been approved for autonomous testing in California. Waymo is the only company to be approved to date for testing without a backup driver.
RELATED CONTENT
-
Jeeps Modified for Moab
On Easter morning in Moab, Utah, when the population of that exceedingly-hard-to-get-to town in one of the most beautiful settings on Earth has more than doubled, some people won’t be hunting for Easter eggs, but will be trying to get a good look at one of the vehicles six that Jeep has prepared for real-life, fast-feedback from the assembled at the annual Easter Jeep Safari.
-
GM Develops a New Electrical Platform
GM engineers create a better electrical architecture that can handle the ever-increasing needs of vehicle systems
-
Robotic Exoskeleton Amplifies Human Strength
The Sarcos Guardian XO Max full-body, all-electric exoskeleton features strength amplification of up to 20 to 1, making 200 pounds—the suit’s upper limit—feel like 10 pounds for the user.
