Suggested Citation:
Pike, Susan (2017) Automated Vehicle Policy and Technology: The Potential to Intersect with Shared Use Mobility Services. Institute of Transportation Studies, University of California, Davis, Research Report UCD-ITS-RR-17-50

This paper reviews national and state level policies regarding the introduction and use of automated vehicles in the United States, and recommends policies going forward. Virtually none of the recommended policies has been implemented to date, but some are urgently needed before automated vehicles become widespread. These include restrictions on the use of internal combustion engines in AVs, and monetary or regulatory measures to discourage low (and zero) occupancy vehicle driving as well as general increases in vehicle travel, along with measures to ensure that commercial use of automated vehicles is compatible/complementary with transit system use.  General restrictions on private ownership of AVs may be needed at least for a period of time to ensure that they enter service as societally beneficial vehicles. So far existing policies are focused mainly on the legality of different levels of automation and various efforts to ensure a safe introduction of AVs. A few states (such as Michigan) are now encouraging introduction of AVs by reducing restrictions. These can be important steps but fall far short of what is needed.