Calif. Moves Toward Self-Driving Delivery Van Testing

The California Department of Motor Vehicles may soon change the current rules and allow testing of autonomous light-duty delivery vehicles weighing less than 10,001 pounds.

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April 16, 2019

Calif. Moves Toward Self-Driving Delivery Van Testing — California is moving to allow self-driving delivery vehicles with a sub-10,001-pound GVWR.
*Photo via Dicklyon/Wikimedia.*

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The California Department of Motor Vehicles may soon change the current rules and allow testing of autonomous light-duty delivery vehicles weighing less than 10,001 pounds, reports CNET's Roadshow.

Presently, all autonomous "motortrucks" are prohibited from testing on public roads, and light-duty delivery vehicles are considered a segment of this group. Compact vans, the Mercedes-Benz Metris, and most full-size vans would qualify.

In its Notice of Proposed Action issued last week, the California Department of Motor Vehicles indicated it would alter the rule and clear delivery vehicles weighing less than 10,001 pounds for public-road useT.

The first step calls for the public to comment on the proposed changes to the law. Consumers can submit written comments to the DMW presently and through May 27.

On May 30, the DMV will host a public hearing in Sacramento where citizens can provide input in person.

Presently, 62 companies have permits and 61 manufacturers are currently testing self-driving vehicles with test drivers on California roadways. Waymo is the only company to receive a permit for testing fully driverless vehicles in the state, according to the report.

Topics:Delivery Fleets California Regulations Autonomous Vehicles Safety

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