LANSING (WKZO-AM) — On the same day that the U.S. Transportation Department released a 112-page order laying down the law on the development of automated cars, a Michigan House committee has sent legislation to the floor that will open up the roads to self-driving cars in Michigan.
The state package would allow for the firms developing the vehicles to use public streets for testing.
Committee Vice Chairperson Rep. Brandt Iden, R-Oshtemo, said this is needed if Michigan is to retain its leading position in auto research and development. He said drivers may be reluctant to give up the wheel at first, but it will catch on.
It will also authorize turning the old Willow Run Airport into a testing facility, create a Council on Future Mobility and give an automated car maker immunity if one of their vehicles is altered and subsequently crashes.
