The first vehicles to use the new systems will be zero emissions vehicles and tested at NASA’s Ames Research Center. More specifically the R&D program will focus on autonomous drive systems, human-machine interface solutions, network-enabled applications, and software analysis and verification.
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NASA will use its data from its planetary rovers to develop various tests for the autonomous systems.
Nissan plans to introduce an autonomous driving vehicle by 2020, according to a press release from the car manufacturer.
"All of our potential topics of research collaboration with Nissan are areas in which Ames has strongly contributed to major NASA programs," said S. Pete Worden, Ames director. "Ames developed Mars rover planning software, robots onboard the International Space Station and Next Generation air traffic management systems to name a few. We look forward to applying knowledge developed during this partnership toward future space and aeronautics endeavors."
Distracted driving remains one of the most persistent risks in fleet operations. New approaches focus on removing mobile device use entirely while adding real-time safety support.
As distraction risks evolve, fleets are turning to smarter, more connected technologies to better understand what’s happening behind the wheel. Part 2 explores how these tools are helping identify risky behaviors and improve visibility across operations.
Distracted driving is often measured by what we can see—phones in hand, eyes off the road. But what about the distractions we can’t? A recent incident raises a bigger question about awareness, attention, and why subtle risks so often go unnoticed.
Fleets have more driver data than ever, so why isn't behavior changing? Training requires more than reports and coaching — it requires real-world practice.
A two-part conversation with Stefan Heck on how AI is transforming the fight against distracted driving. As fleets adopt smarter tools, the focus shifts from reacting to preventing risk. In Part 1, we look at where AI is making an impact for fleets today.
An 11% drop in pedestrian fatalities in early 2025 signals progress in U.S. road safety, but elevated death rates and ongoing risks underscore the need for continued action from fleets and policymakers.