Automakers Ford, Volvo along with technology giant Google and taxi-hailing firms Uber and Lyft have joined forces to push US regulators to draft regulations that support self-driving cars deployment.
The coalition, dubbed the Self-Driving Coalition for Safer Streets, plans to work with lawmakers, regulators, and the public to realize the safety and societal benefits of self-driving vehicles.
Google has already been testing its self-driving cars at some locations in US. Swedish automaker Volvo has elaborate plans to test its self-driving vehicles in China and UK.
Ford has recently started testing its autonomous vehicles in total darkness at one of its facilities in Arizona. The company is using a new radar-like technology, called LiDAR.
Former US National Highway Traffic Safety Administration official David Strickland will serve as the coalition's counsel and spokesperson.
The coalition aims to work with policymakers to identify the correct solutions that support the deployment of self-driving vehicles. It will work with civic organisations, municipalities and businesses to help make driverless cars a reality.
The group said in a statement: "Self-driving technology will enhance public safety and mobility for the elderly and disabled, reduce traffic congestion, improve environmental quality, and advance transportation efficiency."
US President Barack Obama proposed a $4bn budget to accelerate the development and adoption of safe vehicle automation through real-world pilot projects.
Under the proposal, federal regulators, state partners, and automakers will work together to create a national policy for allowing driverless cars on the US roads.
