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The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has proposed a voluntary national framework to evaluate and oversee vehicles equipped with automated driving systems (ADS). The initiative, called the ADS-equipped Vehicle Safety, Transparency, and Evaluation Program (AV STEP), aims to improve transparency and provide insights into the safety and performance of ADS-equipped vehicles. Open to all companies operating or planning to operate compliant ADS vehicles on public roads, AV STEP also offers participation for those requiring exemptions for non-compliant vehicles.
Key Highlights:
- AV STEP provides a voluntary review and reporting framework for ADS-equipped vehicles, promoting transparency and safety oversight.
- Participation is open to all companies operating compliant ADS vehicles and those seeking NHTSA exemptions for non-compliant vehicles.
- The program aligns with the National Roadway Safety Strategy, focusing on reducing injuries and fatalities on U.S. roads.
- Public comments on the rule are encouraged, with details available at docket No. NHTSA-2024-0100.
NHTSA Chief Counsel Adam Raviv emphasized the importance of transparency in the program, stating, “AV STEP would provide a valuable national framework at a pivotal time in the development of ADS technology. Safe, transparent, and responsible development is critical for this technology to be trusted by the public and reach its full potential.”
The proposed framework aims to accelerate public awareness and learning while supporting NHTSA’s safety mission. By leveraging independent third-party assessors, the agency seeks to enhance data collection and operational insights into ADS technology as it matures. This focus on transparency will also aid municipalities, researchers, policymakers, and manufacturers in responsibly advancing ADS development.
Additionally, AV STEP includes two new exemption processes to enhance NHTSA’s administration of ADS exemptions. These processes build on the agency’s experience, offering alternative pathways for regulatory flexibility without replacing existing exemption procedures.
The public can review and comment on the proposed rule, ensuring stakeholder input shapes this pivotal framework. Further details are available on the official regulations website.
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