DOT Initiates Process to Mandate Vehicle-to-Vehicle Communications Technology In New Vehicles
By Tom DeCesar, Ed Fishman, Cliff Rothenstein and Marty Stern
A new federal proposal would require new passenger cars and trucks to contain vehicle-to-vehicle communication technology, which uses radio communications to allow vehicles to “talk” to each other and, for example, warn drivers of safety hazards. Cars that have this technology installed can communicate without the active involvement of a driver or passengers. Proponents believe this technology also can be used to reduce vehicle emissions, fuel consumption and traffic congestion. V2V is seen by many as an important part of the new wave of intelligent transportation systems, which will offer improved safety and functionality in the U.S. surface transportation network.