Autonomous cars are ready to enter the ultimate test—driving on New York roadways.
NY Governor Andrew Cuomo announced on Wednesday that the state is accepting applications from any companies interested in testing self-driving car technology on public streets.
“With this action, we are taking a careful yet balanced approach to incorporating autonomous vehicles on our roads to reduce dangerous driving habits, decrease the number of accidents, and save lives on New York roadways,” says Governor Cuomo in a statement.
Specifically, applications are open to manufacturers of autonomous car technology, or a company creating similar tech working in partnership with developers.
“While we all are familiar with the idea that self-driving cars will one day likely be commonplace, the reality is that there is a long road ahead before we get there,” says DMV Executive Deputy Commissioner Terri Egan. “We need to make sure these vehicles are safely tested on our roads, while providing opportunities for the public to become familiar with this technology.”
There are a few conditions attached to the NY demonstrations. First, all vehicles must comply with both federal safety standards and New York State inspection standards. While the self-driving vehicles are trotting about public roadways, a person holding a valid driver license must be sitting in the driver’s seat at all times. Furthermore, every vehicle used during testing must be listed on the application, and have a $5 million insurance policy set in place.
“The State Police applaud any new and advanced technology that will improve safety on our roadways and reduce accidents, injuries, and fatalities,” says New York State Police Superintendent George P. Beach II. “Any new technology, no matter how innovative, needs to be tested and evaluated appropriately and the State Police will perform its due diligence to oversee this process and ensure its effectiveness.”
Companies must agree to submit the test/demonstration report to the Commissioner of Motor Vehicles no later than March 1, 2018. The self-driving testing period expires April 1, 2018.
If you’re interested in applying and what to read up on the exact testing requirements, click here.