Press Releases

U.S. Rep. Bill Shuster (R-PA), Chairman of the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee, today released the following statement on the release of guidelines from the National Highway Transportation Safety Administration (NHTSA) on autonomous vehicles:

“I have seen firsthand the speed at which autonomous vehicle technology has advanced. In 2007, I first saw Carnegie Mellon University’s prize-winning autonomous vehicle, and three years ago I had a test drive of the University’s next iteration of the car. In only a short period of time, we have seen significant investment in autonomous systems by large technology companies, start-ups, traditional automakers and ride sharing services. The volume of investment by such a wide range of interests removes any doubt that autonomous vehicles are the future. It is critical that we get this right, and ensure that we protect innovators and the safety of the driving public.

If developed and implemented properly, these technologies will revolutionize mobility by improving road safety, creating new transportation options for urban and rural areas, and reducing congestion on our Nation’s roads.

The rapid pace of innovation in autonomous vehicle technology should not occur in a vacuum. There must be a consistent framework that helps guide the development, testing and delivery of autonomous vehicles to the marketplace without stifling innovation and the creativity of the free market. I look forward to more thoroughly reviewing NHTSA’s guidelines and working with stakeholders in both industry and government on this important issue.”