Autonomous Trucks: California Reveals New Tech Testing Plan Amid Controversy

California’s Plan to Test Autonomous Trucks

The California DMV has announced a new plan to start testing driverless trucks on highways across the state. This is a big step toward allowing trucks that drive themselves to operate in California. These trucks are also called autonomous commercial motor vehicles (CMVs) and weigh more than 10,000 pounds.

Current Rules and the New Plan to Roll Out Autonomous Trucks

Until now, California did not allow driverless trucks over 10,000 pounds to be tested or driven on its roads. The DMV wanted to make sure there were clear rules in place for how these trucks could be tested safely. Now, the DMV has put together a plan that would allow these trucks to start driving on certain roads.

The DMV’s plan says that driverless trucks can operate on roads where the speed limit is 50 miles per hour or higher. They can also drive on access roads that connect highways. This setup would let these trucks make long-distance deliveries between major hubs, sticking to simpler routes to start.

Safety Measures and Exclusions

Safety is a top concern in this new plan. That’s why the DMV requires that all driverless trucks have a human safety driver inside during testing. This person will be able to take over the wheel if there is an emergency or if something goes wrong with the truck.

Not all types of commercial vehicles will be included in this testing phase. The DMV has said that certain vehicles won’t be allowed to test without a driver. This includes household movers, buses that transport passengers, trucks with oversized loads, vehicles carrying hazardous materials, and those carrying bulk liquids that need a special tank endorsement. These rules are in place to reduce the risks of accidents involving dangerous or sensitive goods.

The Approval Process

Before driverless trucks can start operating, the DMV’s plan needs to go through a long approval process. This process includes getting input from the public and experts to make sure all safety concerns are addressed. It could take a year or more before any final decisions are made.

New Legislation Could Slow Down Testing of Autonomous Trucks

There is also new legislation that could impact the DMV’s plan. Recently, the California legislature approved Assembly Bill 2286. This bill would stop large driverless trucks from driving on public roads unless a human safety operator is present in the vehicle. The bill is now waiting for Governor Gavin Newsom’s approval.

Governor Newsom vetoed a similar bill last year, saying it wasn’t needed because current laws already give the state the power to set rules for autonomous vehicles. It’s not clear yet if he will sign this new bill or veto it like he did before.

What’s Next for Autonomous Trucks in California?

The DMV’s plan to allow driverless trucks is a big change, and it could lead to more autonomous vehicles on the road in the future. Supporters of driverless trucks believe that these vehicles can make deliveries safer and more efficient by reducing human error. They also think it could lower costs in the trucking industry.

However, there are still many concerns about safety, especially when it comes to sharing the road with other drivers and the potential for job losses in the trucking industry. The next steps will depend on the results of the testing phase, how the DMV’s rules are finalized, and what happens with the new legislation.

Looking Ahead

California is moving forward with plans to test driverless trucks, but there are still many steps to take before these trucks become a common sight on the roads. With safety as a top priority, the state is carefully considering all aspects of this new technology. As these plans develop, the future of driverless trucking in California will become clearer.