LOS ANGELES (AP) – Google has some harsh words about draft rules governing how consumers would get access to self-driving cars in its home state. California’s Department of Motor Vehicles unveiled the framework Wednesday. It would require a licensed driver behind the wheel once the agency is satisfied self-driving cars are safe. Google has led development of the technology and Johnny Luu says the company is “gravely disappointed” by the rules, which will limit Google’s ability to deploy the cars as quickly as it would like. California’s proposed rules are subject to public comment and will not be final for months. The DMV has struggled with how to know the technology is safe – before letting it move beyond the current testing of prototypes on public roads. Meanwhile, Texas is already reminding Google that self-driving cars are welcome. Austin is the only place where Google is testing the vehicles outside California. A spokesman for Austin’s mayor says local leaders believe self-driving vehicles are safe.
