DOT to issue autonomous driving guidelines in July

DOT to issue autonomous driving guidelines in July

Transportation Secretary Anthony Foxx will issue federal guidelines for autonomous vehicles next month, NHTSA Administrator Mark Rosekind said at a conference in Michigan. Safety is paramount, but the guidelines must be flexible, Rosekind said.

Automakers are eager for federal guidelines that override the emerging patchwork of state laws. For instance, California has issued draft guidelines stating that an autonomous vehicle must have a steering wheel and licensed driver ready to take over if needed. Nevada has permitted autonomous vehicles to be widely tested on its roads.

Rosekind said that for autonomous vehicles to be allowed on the road, they must be at least twice as safe as manned vehicles.