Autonomous vehicle testing to start in New York State
Governor Andrew M. Cuomo has announced that New York State is now accepting applications from companies interested in testing or demonstrating autonomous vehicles on public roads. In a statement issued yesterday (10 May), Governor Cuomo said that new legislation included in the FY 2018 Budget, will allow for testing autonomous technology through a year-long pilot program.
“New York has emerged as one of the nation’s leading hubs for innovation, and as we invite companies and entrepreneurs to reimagine transportation technology, we will encourage the development of new, safe travel options for New Yorkers,” said Cuomo.
“With this action, we are taking a careful yet balanced approach to incorporating autonomous vehicles on our roads to reduce dangerous driving habits, decrease the number of accidents and save lives on New York roadways.”
All vehicles will also have to comply with federal safety standards and all applicable New York State inspection standards, and a person holding a valid driver licence must be present in the driver’s seat at all times while it is operated on public highways. Each vehicle to be used will have to be listed in the application, and a $5 million insurance policy must be in place for any vehicles to be tested.
A number of other US states – most notably Arizona, Pennsylvania and California – have already been powered ahead with autonomous vehicle testing on the public highways.
