SAN FRANCISCO – (INT) – The future of driverless vehicles is taking a step forward in California.

The California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC) has authorized Cruise, LLC to participate in California’s first pilot program to provide “driverless” autonomous vehicle (AV) passenger service to the public.

Cruise LLC is the first entrant into the CPUC’s Driverless Pilot program, in which passengers can ride in a test vehicle that operates without a driver in the vehicle. Cruise LLC may not charge passengers for any rides in test AVs.

As required, Cruise LLC has already obtained a testing permit from the California Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV).

The CPUC’s pilot programs are intended to allow AV companies to develop their technologies on a test basis.

The development of autonomous driving for private and fleet vehicles is expected to grow.

Story Date: June 25, 2021