PennDOT Launches Public Survey on Automated Vehicles
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The Pennsylvania Department of Transportation announced April 28 the launch of a survey meant to offer an idea of constituents’ perceptions and knowledge of automated vehicles.
Through the survey, the state’s Highly Automated Vehicle Advisory Committee seeks to gauge Pennsylvanians’ understanding of automated vehicle technology, level of comfort and expectations.
Established in 2018 through Act 117, the Highly Automated Vehicle Advisory Committee is a partnership composed of public and private members that has power to advise the Secretary of Transportation on connected and automated vehicle matters. The group’s role includes developing technical guidance, evaluating best practices and reviewing existing laws and regulations.
This survey was developed by the Pennsylvania Highly Automated Vehicle Advisory Committee. The purpose is to identify Pennsylvanians' perception of automated vehicles. Find more details in today's blog: https://t.co/95x5KZDAhE — PA Department of Transportation (@PennDOTNews) April 29, 2021
“Automated vehicle technology is rapidly advancing, and many features are already available in newer vehicles,” said PennDOT Secretary Yassmin Gramian. “It is important that the department understands how Pennsylvanians feel about this technology, to help us shape our education and communication focus going forward.”
The survey, designed to take fewer than 10 minutes to complete, asks participants to rate their knowledge and express their general opinion of automated vehicles. It also asks how they have been exposed to information on automated vehicles (such as through newspapers or television), which type of vehicle they most often drive and if they have ever ridden in a fully automated vehicle.
Act 117 permitted transit vehicles to platoon on highways in Pennsylvania. According to PennDOT, the agency plans to perform a study to determine if platooning transit vehicles can supplement the existing intercity passenger rail in western Pennsylvania. PennDOT will determine the level of investment, document potential effects on the region and existing services, evaluate ridership demand and determine a return on investment.
In terms of workforce development, the Highly Automated Vehicle Advisory Committee plans to conduct an initial examination of automotive technicians or commercial truck drivers (or both) because these careers are being impacted by the introduction of advanced driver assistance systems.
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