AV group unveils federal policy framework for Congress, DOT

The Autonomous Vehicle Industry Association on Wednesday released a U.S. policy framework outlining key priorities for federal AV legislation and regulation. The group's framework includes several recommendations for Congress and the U.S. Department of Transportation to steer federal action and advance the deployment and commercialization of AVs across the U.S. "AVs are testing and operating in states around the country, bringing people and goods to where they need to go. America is currently the leader in AV technology, but other countries are surging forward," said Jeff Farrah, executive director of the trade association, whose members include Aurora, Cruise, Ford, Volkswagen, Waymo and Zoox. "It is time for the U.S. to solidify our leadership," he continued, "and these policy recommendations will expand opportunities for AVs to increase road safety, create new mobility options and support economic growth and new jobs." The group said it is the first recommended federal framework that covers all modes of AVs, including delivery vehicles, trucks and passenger cars.