America’s Biggest Automakers Want Cars Without Steering Wheels On The Road

Whether the American giants obtain permission for this is yet to be seen, but the NHTSA’s Steven Cliff has said both applications will be scrutinized. He said the government agency will “carefully examine each petition to ensure safety is prioritized and to include considerations of access for people with disabilities, equity and the environment.”

The idea of a car without windscreen wipers, a steering wheel, and pedals may be foreign to many, but it makes sense here. For autonomous public transport and delivery vehicles, the omission of these components frees up space that could be used to enhance the passenger experience.

Of course, these vehicles will have to adhere to the strictest safety requirements. GM has already said the proposed Cruise Origin units will require occupants to buckle up prior to departure. We assume Ford’s vehicles will have similar preconditions in place.