The US Department of Transportation’s National Highway Traffic Safety Administration has announced the expansion of its Automated Vehicle Transparency and Engagement for Safe Testing (AV TEST) initiative from a pilot to a full program. As a result of this move, NHTSA’s online tracking tool, which provides data on the on-road testing and safety performance of automated driving systems in cities across the country, is now open to all stakeholders. Previously, nine states and companies fully participated in the AV TEST pilot initiative. Under the expansion, 52 companies, government agencies and associations are now participating.
“NHTSA’s open and direct relationships with automated technology developers, states and other stakeholders are instrumental to ensuring that these technologies help save lives and prevent injuries on American roadways,” commented NHTSA deputy administrator James Owens. “AV TEST will help participants and the public understand the capabilities and limitations of these technologies, to share best practices, and to promote healthy competition for safer practices and information sharing that the public can review and compare.”
According to the administration, the information provided via the scheme will help keep the public informed of the progress, advancement and safety implications regarding automated vehicles that participate in the program. The portal is available on NHTSA’s website and will be updated as new information is submitted.
