DETROIT – For the first time, regulators in the United States approved a company’s request for an autonomous vehicle that does not meet the same federal safety standards that apply to cars and trucks driven by humans.
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) granted a temporary approval for the Nuro robotic company to circulate a low-speed autonomous delivery vehicle, which does not have side mirrors or rear-view mirrors, and other necessary safety provisions for vehicles driven by humans. The windshield wipers, steering wheel or brake pedals are also not on the safety list.
Previously, vehicles were subject to federal standards for low-speed units that travel less than 40 kilometers (25 miles) per hour. These did not need steering wheels, brake pedals and did not have to have supportive human drivers.
If necessary, a person can remotely monitor and control the vehicles of Nuro, a Silicon Valley company.
In December, Nuro announced plans to use its low-speed vehicles, called “R2,” in partnership with Walmart to deliver purchases to customers in Houston. The service was to begin earlier this year and use the vehicles, as well as automated Toyota Prius hybrid cars. Nuro also tested deliveries with Kroger in Arizona and Houston.
Under temporary approval, Nuro will have to make real-time safety reports to the regulatory agency. The company must also have regular meetings with the agency and contact the community in the areas where vehicles circulate.
“NHTSA is committed to working with industry and key shareholders to create a space for innovation while prioritizing security,” the agency said in a statement Thursday.
Nuro, of Mountain View, California, announced on Thursday at R2, the second generation of a vehicle specifically manufactured to deliver goods, but not transport humans.
The company said it plans to deploy less than 100 vehicles this year, but has permission from the NHTSA to eventually drive up to 2,500.
Nuro said NHTSA approved the proposal after three years of working with the agency.
“By replacing the heavy passenger vehicles used for purchases and other errands, Nuro leads a new era of zero-passenger vehicles that are neighborhood-friendly and socially responsible.”
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