Solvik-Olsen opens for driverless cars

Minister of Transport and Communications Ketil Solvik-Olsen ( Progress Party )Minister of Transport and Communications Ketil Solvik-Olsen ( Progress Party ). Photo: Progress Party

The first self-driving cars and buses can roll on Norwegian roads as early as next fall.

– Today, rules are that a driver must control the vehicle at all times. But with the regulations that we are making now, you will now be able to test driverless vehicles within legal framework, said Transport Minister Ketil Solvik-Olsen (FRP) to E24.

Ministry sends these days out a bill for consultation allowing for testing of self-driving vehicles in traffic. It is expected that the new law will be adopted in spring 2017.

The aim is to gradually phase out the technology is expected to revolutionize transport on Norwegian roads.

– We need practical experience before we take the next steps. There’s a lot you need to learn, but we think it is best done by trying it out in the real world, he says.

If the law becomes a reality, you need taxi companies, public transport companies, car manufacturers and others who want to test driverless vehicle, seek permission from the Norwegian authorities.

The permit may be limited to apply to a specific vehicle or vehicle group.

It can also be limited in time, to a certain geographical area or to a particular road.

Some experiments with self-running buses has already been done in Norway, but never in normal traffic.

 

Source: NTB scanpix / Norway Today