Automotive
Minneapolis considers mandating human operators inside autonomous rideshare vehicles
Jalopnik reports that the proposed municipal rule would require human drivers inside self-driving cars operating within the city.
The short version
- Minneapolis city officials have introduced a rule proposal titled 'Workers Drive Minneapolis' that would require autonomous vehicle companies to keep a human operator in the driver's seat.[Jalopnik]
- Waymo, which currently operates test vehicles with human safety drivers in Minneapolis without carrying passengers, has described the proposed ordinance as a de facto ban on autonomous vehicles.[Jalopnik]
- City Council Member Robin Wonsley stated the measure is intended to safeguard public safety and prevent driver job losses due to automation.[Jalopnik]
Key facts
- Minneapolis city officials proposed the 'Workers Drive Minneapolis' rule requiring a human monitor behind the wheel of autonomous vehicles.[Jalopnik]
- Waymo is actively testing vehicles in Minneapolis with human operators monitoring system performance or driving to collect data.[Jalopnik]
- Waymo characterized the proposed rule as a de facto ban on autonomous vehicles.[Jalopnik]
- City Council Member Robin Wonsley stated the proposal aims to protect public safety and prevent job losses for immigrant workers caused by automation.[Jalopnik]
What remains uncertain
- It remains uncertain whether the Minneapolis City Council will formally adopt the proposed requirement into law.[Jalopnik]
Sources
Outlet counts describe coverage, not independent confirmation. Reports may share a wire service or original source.