Compliance: How we ensure our autonomous solutions meet the mark

What is compliance for autonomous vehicles and machines? Why is it relevant to V.A.S.?

Compliance is essentially a set of rules we must comply with to be able to sell our autonomous solutions in different countries. Put simply, if we do not fulfill the compliance requirements, we will not be able to sell our solutions.

How does compliance affect the development of autonomous vehicles and machines?

Compliance is a vital stakeholder in the development of autonomous vehicles and machines since it identifies which requirements are mandatory for our product to fulfill. Identifying the valid compliance requirements is one of the first things we do prior to starting our development.

From a safety perspective, why is compliance so important?

It is important since the compliance requirements are an input to safety. Safety is usually a key element to compliance.

How does the compliance process start in a new project?

Before we commit to a new project, we often conduct a pre-study. The purpose of the pre-study is to assess the feasibility of V.A.S. to deliver the potential project. During the pre-study phase we identify the regulatory compliance requirements we need to fulfill for this certain project.

Typically, how long does it take?

This question is very hard to answer. It can go quickly if we have done investigations previously for similar solutions, but if we start from scratch, it might take a longer time.

How do you work with policymakers to help establish new rules and regulations regarding autonomous vehicles and machines?

As technology evolves, so too do regulations for autonomous vehicles and machines. It’s therefore important for us to have an open dialogue with policymakers, be proactive and as clear as possible with how we see the development. As part of this, we’re also able to review proposed and upcoming legislation, providing feedback where necessary.

Because we work in different countries, sharing successful case studies from other regions can help show policymakers how the application of our autonomous technology is working in the real world. As this is a relatively new industry, this close relationship helps us learn and grow together.

How will compliance evolve over the next 10 years?

I see for the coming years that the legal landscape connected to autonomy will become clearer as we get regulatory compliance requirements released and published.