Jan 1-7, 2024 Weekly Newsletter | Transportation Sustainability Research Center

AUTOMATED VEHICLES

At this time, California police officers cannot issue traffic tickets to automated vehicles (AVs); however, the AVs are subject to parking tickets. Alternatively, in Texas, legislation allows for AVs to receive traffic tickets for violations. Arizona also is in the process of developing legislation that allows for traffic tickets to be issued to AV owners.

AUTOMATED VEHICLES

An Indiana state representative proposes a bill limiting the operation of automated heavy-duty (HDVs) vehicles. If passed, this bill would only allow automated HDVs to operate with a licensed human operator. The motivations for this bill include: concerns over WiFi reliability, blocked vehicle sensors, potential for cyberattacks, and protection of HDV driving jobs.

ELECTRIC VEHICLES

New supply chain requirements for the federal electric vehicle (EV) tax credit program reduce the number of eligible vehicles. Some of the vehicles that are no longer eligible include the Nissan Leaf, Volkswagen ID.4, and certain versions of the Tesla Model 3. Additionally, some vehicles no longer qualify for the full credit amount of $7,500 and have been downgraded to a $3,750 credit.

TNCs/RIDEHAILING

New laws in New York City, New York and Seattle, Washington require app-based drivers to be paid a minimum wage. Pay for drivers in these cities is required to be determined on a per-mile basis, per-minute basis, or meet a minimum per-job rate. Other cities and states watch as the app-based companies challenge the new labor laws and threaten to pass increased operational costs onto the consumer.

URBAN AIR MOBILITY

The National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) conducts autonomous drone research to support air taxis. The research involves software designed to detect and avoid other air traffic and determine safe landing locations in the event of an emergency. NASA also reports testing of automated flight software using helicopters to prepare for automated air taxis.