CVSA Standing Policy - Automated Driving Systems - Smart Trailers

• The autonomous vehicle (AV) agenda for the trucking industry is primarily focused on truckload operations nationwide requiring van type trailers. • AV trucks (SAE L4 ADS technology retrofitted or installed at the OEM) are expanding in the industry through pilots and actual freight deliveries connected to trailers unfit for autonomy.

• It is unwise for government, industry, and the public to accept AV trucks without requiring trailers (industry identified as smart trailers) having advanced safety technologies and capable of monitoring and communicating safety system status. AV tractor-trailers are only AV truck supported leaving half of the combination vehicle, especially the heaviest half with most reported safety defects, at high risk. • An AV truck means little to the industry if not hauling freight. Thus, both the AV truck and trailer should be required in CVSA Level VIII Inspections and added to the Automated Driving System section of CVSA’s Standing Policies.

• Making a change to the Automated Driving Systems section of the CVSA Standing Policies to recognize smart trailers (however CVSA defines) as part of the policy when considering “ADS equipped CMVs” as a combination vehicle. • For example, suggested changes could be adding an extra bullet to the second paragraph stating: o “are subject to be coupled with trailers requiring the same inspection, continuously safety system monitoring and remote communication as ADS equipped CMVs”