Germany To Legislate Black Box Data Recorders For Autonomous Vehicles

Germany’s transport ministry looks set to introduce legislation which would require data recorders, similar to an aircraft black box, to be fitted to all vehicles with autonomous capabilities.

The proposal, as reported by Reuters, is only in its early stages, but would also include a stipulation that drivers remain behind the wheel to resume control in an emergency; they won't, however, be required to remain attentive at all times.

Data recorders will retain vehicle data during autonomous operation, and in instances where the vehicle has requested the driver take over.

The move to more tightly control the autonomous vehicle industry comes after the first recorded fatality in an Autopilot equipped Tesla Models S in the United States.

Autonomous Vehicles