California Legislation May Hinder Deployment of Autonomous Trucks


Autonomous Trucks

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California may implement legislation that could make it extremely challenging for heavy-duty autonomous trucks to operate on state highways without a safety driver. While testing autonomous trucks without drivers is permitted in 42 states, California is currently not one of them. However, there still exists no permitting process for testing heavy-duty autonomous trucks, even with a safety driver on board. On the other hand, proponents of autonomous trucking argue that autonomous vehicles can contribute to economic growth, job creation, and road safety. These companies have had to operate in other states like Texas and Arizona, where testing and deployment of autonomous trucks are more welcomed.