New guidelines for the development of self-driving vehicles, tires designed to adapt to road conditions, and the opening of several new hydrogen fueling stations were among the items promoted by automakers and automotive entities recently.

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[naviga:li]The Department of Transportation and National Highway Traffic Safety Administration recently updated the federal guidelines for automated vehicle technology. "Automated Driving Systems: A Vision for Safety 2.0" aligns the latest guidance with developments in self-driving vehicles as well as terminology in the field. The new policy focuses on Levels 3 to 5 of planned automation, including systems that can handle all driving tasks in some circumstances, but may still alert a human driver that they need to resume control; systems that can handle all driving tasks with no need for humans to resume control, but only in certain circumstances; and full automation where drivers never need to take control. The DOT and NHTSA says the policy is designed to be flexible to adjust to changing developments, and that guidelines for 3.0 are already in planning.[/naviga:li]

[naviga:li]The tire company Continental has introduced a pair of technologies designed to adapt to road conditions and better alert drivers of any problems. ContiAdapt uses micro-compressors in the wheel to change the tire pressure, thus adjusting the size of the rubber patch making contact with the road; for example, the tire can set a lower pressure and increase its contact patch for better handling on slippery surfaces. ContiSense uses sensors and electrically conductive rubber compounds to warn drivers if tread depth or temperature are above or below their limits; the sensors can also immediately send an alert if a puncture occurs. Both technologies debuted at the Frankfurt Motor Show in Germany.[/naviga:li]

[naviga:li]Two automakers are collaborating with Shell Oil to bring seven hydrogen refueling stations to northern California, including three in San Francisco. The California Energy Commission has awarded a $16.36 million grant for the installation of hydrogen options at existing Shell stations, and Honda and Toyota will provide further financial assistance. Both Honda and Toyota have introduced fuel cell vehicles that rely on hydrogen, namely the Honda Clarity and Toyota Mirai.[/naviga:li]

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