PennDOT outlines new rules to test automated vehicles

The Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT) in the US has introduced a multi-step action plan to increase safety oversight over highly automated vehicles (HAVs) operations in the state.

The voluntary testing policy was unveiled by PennDOT secretary Leslie Richards at the Automated Vehicle Summit in Pittsburgh.

Richards said: “Given public concerns about safety on Pennsylvania roadways, we must implement interim oversight policies while we await legislative action on our request for permanent authorisation.”

PennDOT will call a meeting of the testers to discuss the interim policies and reconvene the Automated Vehicle Policy Task Force, created in June 2016, to update the testing policy recommendations.

The process will be carried out in the next 60 to 90 days.

The tester can procure an authorisation letter from PennDOT after submitting a ‘Notice of Testing’ and complying with the voluntary policies. The authorisation will be valid for one year.

PennDOT has urged the automated vehicle manufacturers to coordinate in developing the best practices for operating HAVs within safety critical locations, as well as focus on developing vehicle-to-vehicle, vehicle-to-infrastructure, and vehicle-to-device connectivity.

It will also work with the HAV industry to establish an independent technical review body to encourage the implementation of best practices for automated vehicle operations.

Furthermore, PennDOT will seek approval from the General Assembly to allow AV testing on public roadways in the state, subject to all necessary monitoring and compliance with its testing safety policies.

Richards added: “HAVs hold much promise for enhanced mobility and economic prosperity, but much work remains to be done before the technology matures to the point where widespread use will be accepted.

“Pennsylvania welcomes the continued testing of HAVs, but wants to do so in a way to ensure safety is not compromised.”