113. The representative of the United States of America gave a presentation on the approach of his Administration concerning the five possible levels of vehicle automation (WP.29-161-18). He stated that although a lot of progress had been accomplished so far by manufacturers in his country and around the world on this subject, his Administration considered this technology not mature [enough] to be regulated at this time. He stated that NHTSA was taking into account several areas of technology and provided definitions to provide a better understanding on how the United States of America was approaching this subject. Therefore, he invited AC.3 representatives to participate in a workshop organized by his country in the Vehicle Research Test Center (VRTC) of NHTSA in Columbus, in the spring or summer of 2014, to share research progress.

114. The representative of the United Kingdom stated that the timely initiation of this discussion could lead the way for a possible start in a harmonized approach worldwide. He underlined that the issue of acronyms designated by manufacturers for individual technological solutions could create confusion for customers and prevents a future performance-based approach. He suggested that the WP.29 IWG on ITS would be the best place to continue and develop discussions on a harmonized approach on this matter. The representative of Germany endorsed this statement. He informed AC.3 that similar discussions were taking place in his country and that a forum had been established dealing with three different groups of interests: (i) research, (ii) vehicle and liability and (iii) the driver. Finally, he raised concerns on the different levels of automation and the responsibility (manufacturer or driver) associated to them. He concluded that liability issues should be prioritized before starting discussion on definitions and invited AC.3 to establish a round table to develop discussions. The representative of Japan endorsed the statement by the United Kingdom. He informed that his country had also been studying vehicle automation and could present the approach of his Ministry at the next IWG on ITS.

115. AC.3 requested the secretariat to insert a specific agenda item on this matter.