While California is reporting a sharp uptick in autonomous vehicle testing, some industry leaders are questioning the overall value of the data given the Golden State’s stance against larger commercial AVs.
The California Department of Motor Vehicles recently reported a 21% year-over-year increase in the number of miles autonomous vehicles drove in the state on public roads. During 2022, AVs drove 5.7 million miles, or a million more miles than 2021. However, those miles are limited to vehicles weighing no more than 10,001 pounds, which makes only Class 1 and 2 AVs eligible for testing in the state.
The Autonomous Vehicle Industry Association, an advocacy group that counts some of the biggest AV players in the nation among its members, is pleased to see California’s gains in AV testing but also concerned about policy there that excludes larger autonomous vehicles.
“California is a leader in AVs with residents reaping the benefits of everything from ride hail in San Francisco and Los Angele, to takeout deliveries and meal services with food banks,” said AVIA Executive Director Jeff Farrah.
“However, California runs the risk of getting left behind on autonomous trucks, which are forbidden from deploying in the state,” Farrah continued. “One study found that, over time, AV trucks will create thousands of jobs in the state while spurring greater efficiency, investment and economic growth. We encourage state regulators to begin a rulemaking to permit AV trucks so that autonomous trucks can deliver safety and economic benefits.”
