Standing Policy Update for Automated Driving System (ADS) Vehicles

CVSA needs a standing policy supportive of our proposed approach to managing enforcement/inspections relative to trucks driven by automated driving systems (ADS) with no human driver needed in the driver's seat (SAE Level 4 automation).

Submitted on behalf of the CVSA Enforcement and Industry Modernization Committee and Automated CMV Working Group. Following significant work by CVSA's Automated CMV Working Group and our Enforcement and Industry Modernization committee, CVSA approved in 2020 our Option 7 recommended approach for how enforcement should engage with trucks operated by automated driving systems (and with no safety driver onboard), also known as SAE level 4 (L4) automation. The recommended approach includes a new process in which motor carriers will be trained by CVSA to conduct a CVSA enhanced inspection prior to operation, enforcement will limit stops of these vehicles to cases where violations are observed, and CVSA and industry will work establish an electronic verification that the enhanced inspection was completed and the automated driving system (ADS) self-reports good working status. CVSA report here: https://www.cvsa.org/wp-content/uploads/CVSA-FMCSA-ADS-Report.pdf CVSA is now building the enhanced inspection training course. CVSA needs to advocate for limiting stops of ADS trucks. CVSA needs to work with ADS developers, motor carriers and manufacturers/suppliers to enable the electronic verification. Having a standing policy supporting the goals of the recommended approach shows CVSA’s commitment toward these efforts.

Establish in CVSA standing policy the following: CVSA Standing Policy Guide Statement: ADS Deployment • CVSA recognizes the potential safety benefits associated with deployment of automated driving systems in trucking operations. • CVSA supports limiting enforcement stops for roadside inspections of ADS trucks, except in the case of imminent hazard, for: • ADS vehicles that are subject to an enhanced inspection process, developed by CVSA, and conducted by a CVSA trained individual. • Participating vehicles must be subject to/compatible with remotely communicating completion of enhanced inspection and status of ADS components.