Robotaxis soon to drive around NYC

Most people know New York City as the “concrete jungle” in Jay-Z’s song “Empire State of Mind.” Others recognize it as the “Big Apple” or the “City that Never Sleeps.” 

Soon, people may recognize it as one of the first US cities to adopt driverless vehicles. Mayor Eric Adams says he will allow driverless technology in his city because he believes it is inevitable.

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However, companies that wish to test their robotaxis or autonomous vehicles in the area must pass specific criteria, such as having safety drivers.

What are New York’s rules for robotaxis?

The Verge reported on NYC’s new “rigorous permitting system” for autonomous vehicle companies. 

It would allegedly ensure applicants are “ready to test their technology in the country’s most challenging urban environment safely and proficiently.”

PIX 11 News says New York City’s Department of Transportation will work with these companies to:

• Understand the competencies of their robotaxis and their technology
• Review the scope of their proposed testing plan
• Review their test vehicle operator training program
• Discuss their company’s approach to safety, particularly as demonstrated through previous urban testing experience.

Applicants must also have safety drivers while testing their vehicles to avoid robotaxis from blocking roads and obstructing public service vehicles.

Those who meet these criteria will receive a permit from the DOT. Companies without previous autonomous vehicle testing experience in other cities and would not need to follow these requirements. 

NYC Mayor Eric Adams told The Verge, “This technology is coming whether we like it or not, so we’re going to make sure that we get it right.”

“New York City leads the nation in responsible innovation, and we’re continuing to do so with this new autonomous vehicle program,” he added.