U.S. Self-Driving Industry Calls for Federal Support Amid Competition from China

Industry groups warn of losing competitive edge without government backing, as safety concerns rise following recent incidents.

The U.S. self-driving industry has called for federal support, warning that without it, the industry could lose out to competitors like China.
Industry groups have written a letter to Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg, stating that the department’s support for autonomous vehicle development is crucial to maintain the nation's competitive edge.
Self-driving cars could save thousands of lives annually by eliminating human errors like fatigued, impaired, and distracted driving, according to the letter.
The industry is facing challenges after California suspended the permit of General Motors' Cruise robotaxis to test on public roads following a series of accidents.
More than two dozen unions last month urged Buttigieg to do more to ensure autonomous vehicle safety, calling for an industry-wide investigation into safety failures.