DOT establishes autonomous advisory committee to guide policy on automated trucks, cars

A Volvo VNL equipped with the Otto retrofit autonomous system hauled a load of Budweiser 125 miles last week in Colorado.A Volvo VNL equipped with the Otto retrofit autonomous system hauled a load of Budweiser 125 miles last week in Colorado.

U.S. Department of Transportation Secretary Anthony Foxx announced last week he will establish an advisory committee on automated transportation, meant to help regulators frame policy around the development and deployment of automated vehicles.

“This committee will help determine how, when, and where automated technology will transform the way we move,” said U.S. Transportation Secretary Anthony Foxx. “The Department has advanced some of the life-saving benefits of automated technologies, including automated vehicle policy, but we are looking outside the government for innovative and thoughtful leaders to uncover its full potential across all modes.”

Members of the committee will engage in information gathering, develop technical advice and present recommendations to Foxx on automated vehicles connected roads, enhanced freight movement and more.

In particular, the committee will perform these activities as they may relate to emerging or not-yet-conceived”= innovations to ensure the DOT is prepared when disruptive technologies emerge, the DOT says.

The DOT seeks 15 individuals with cross-modal perspectives on issues like intelligent transportation systems, robotics, enhanced freight movement, air traffic control next generation technology and advanced transportation technology deployment.

Committee members will serve 2-year terms, with no more than two consecutive term re­appointments. The Department strives to select individuals with in-depth knowledge of their respective industries or government sectors.  Members are nominated through a transparent process published in the Federal Register, the DOT says.

Individuals interested in nominating themselves or other potential members, should send materials to: [email protected].