Driverless car bill passed in California

The legislation sets a framework for safety and performance regulations to test driverless cars. A licensed driver would still need to be behind the wheel as a back-up, however, to over-ride the auto-pilot at any time. "Autonomous vehicles are another example of how California's technological leadership is turning today's science fiction into tomorrow's reality," said Brown. "This law will allow California's pioneering engineers to safely test and implement this amazing new technology." Google executives and elected leaders, who joined Brown for a signing ceremony at Google's headquarters, said the bill paves the way for new technology that could reduce highway fatalities, pollution and congestion while expanding mobility options for elderly and disabled people. In May this year the Nevada Department of Motor Vehicles issued Google with the first license to test its self driving cars on the county's public streets, after demonstrations proved it to be extremely safe. Google claims the car, which utilises video cameras mounted on the roof, radar sensors and a laser range finder to 'see' other traffic, has racked up more than 200,000 miles with no accidents, other than a minor bump at traffic lights from a car behind. "Self-driving cars can transform lives and communities - providing transportation to those not currently served, increasing safety on the road, reducing or eliminating congestion, and turning parking into parkland," said Google co-founder Sergey Brin.