Topic
self-driving cars
Technology NHTSA Warns Autonomous Vehicle Developers Over Interference With First Responders
The head of the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) sent a letter to autonomous vehicle developers decrying a pattern of driverless cars interfering with emergency responders. Incidents include vehicles driving into active scenes, blocking ambulances, and failing to respond to hand signals. NHTSA warns it will use enforcement authority if safety concerns are not addressed.
Technology Free Waymo Rides in California? A Regulatory Quirk Delays Expansion and Keeps Prices at $0
Waymo's new Ojai robotaxis are giving free rides in California because the state's Public Utilities Commission has not yet approved the company's application to expand its service area and add the vehicles to its fleet. The delay, tied to questions about emergency response and unaccompanied minors, means passengers ride without charge while Waymo waits for regulatory sign-off.
Explainable deep learning improves human mental models of self-driving cars, study finds
A new method called Concept-Wrapper Network (CW-Net) provides faithful explanations of deep neural network planners in self-driving cars, improving human drivers' ability to anticipate vehicle behavior, especially in surprising situations. Deployed on a real autonomous vehicle, the system shows that explainable AI can be practical and useful in real-world settings.
Technology Waymo's Virtual Human Driver Enhances Robotaxi Safety
Waymo has developed a virtual human driver model, ReD, to enhance the safety of its autonomous vehicles. This model simulates human driving behavior to improve accident avoidance, working with Delft University of Technology and other partners.