Connecticut Launches Pilot Program For Autonomous Car Testing

Connecticut has launched a pilot program for self-driving vehicles that will see select prototypes driving on public roads throughout the state.

Governor Dannel P. Malloy revealed the news on Tuesday, saying that autonomous vehicles represent the future of transportation.

Hartford Courant reports that up to four interested towns and cities will be selected to participate in the pilot and allow manufacturers to test self-driving cars on their roads.

“Make no mistake, autonomous vehicles are the future of transportation, whether it is people looking for a safer and easier commute, more efficient and cheaper commercial transit, more precise ride-sharing and for-hire services, or beyond,” Malloy said.

“These vehicles are going to be part of our lives soon and we want to take proactive steps to have our state be at the forefront of this innovative technology.”

22 states in the U.S. have regulations for autonomous vehicles

Municipalities in Connecticut must apply for self-driving vehicles to hit their roads. The application requires a plan that stipulates a location for testing, goals of the program, a public education strategy and whethertesters have been contacted or not.

No car manufacturers have signed on to partner with municipalities at this stage, but the state says it has had discussions with leaders in self-driving technologies.

As with other states that allow self-driving vehicles, the prototypes will be required to have a trained, licensed operator behind the wheel at all times.