On June 8, 2020, the US DOT announced the launch of the Automated Vehicle Transparency and Engagement for Safe Testing Initiative (AV TEST Initiative). As part of the initiative, the USDOT will host a series of virtual kickoff events aimed at raising awareness of automated driving system developments and testing activities, and facilitating greater public understanding around activities that support safe development and on-road testing of prototype automated driving systems in the United States.
In addition to engaging with stakeholders and the public, the AV TEST Initiative aims to increase transparency by providing an online, public-facing platform for sharing automated driving system on-road testing activities and other pertinent information with the public. Online mapping tools will eventually show testing locations at the local, State, and national levels, as well as testing activity data, such as vehicle types and uses, dates, frequency, vehicle counts, and routes.
Information on the upcoming kickoff events is below.
Monday, June 15, at 1:00 PM EST: AV TEST Initiative Launch
Opening remarks from U.S. Department of Transportation Secretary Elaine L. Chao and NHTSA Deputy Administrator James C. Owens. FHWA Administrator Nicole Nason and US DOT Deputy Assistant Secretary for Transportation Policy Finch Fulton will also be providing remarks.
Click Here to Register to Attend
Wednesday, June 17, at 1:00 PM EST: Opportunities and Challenges with Automated Driving Systems – Virtual Panel
This discussion will include leaders from private-sector organizations focused on different use cases of automated driving systems, including developers, testing companies, passenger-less delivery, and other innovative companies. Topics will include a discussion of opportunities and challenges in safe on-road testing, design for inclusivity, and emerging technologies that are being used among industry stakeholders.
Click Here to Register to Attend
Thursday, June 18, at 1:00 PM EST: The Role of On-Road Testing in Automated Driving Systems Development and Safe Deployment – Virtual Panel
This discussion will include perspectives from leaders in industry, academia, and government to gain a broad overview for the need, role, and history of on-road testing of automotive technologies and specifically in the ongoing development of automated driving systems toward their eventual safe deployment. Topics will include the current state of development and prototype testing in the United States with a focus on technical progress achieved to date, key remaining challenges, and activities underway.