The Autonomous Vehicle Industry Association (AVIA) unveiled its new name, replacing the brand formerly known as the Self-Driving Coalition for Safer Streets. As the leading trade association for companies developing autonomous vehicle (AV) technology that improves safety and enhances mobility, the new brand showcases the evolution of both the AV industry and the organization’s role with policymakers and the public.
AVIA brings together a diverse group of the world’s most forward-thinking technology, automotive, transportation, delivery, and ridesharing companies. AVIA was the first organisation in Washington DC, which focuses completely on autonomous vehicles and was founded in 2016 by founding members Ford, Lyft, Uber, Volvo Cars, and Waymo. The organisation has evolved from a narrowly focused coalition to a trade group that engages with federal, state, and local policymakers while representing the whole AV sector, which is broad, diversified, and growing. In just five years, the organization has tripled its membership, solidified its position as the AV industry’s single voice, and greatly boosted engagement with legislators and regulators.
“Autonomous vehicles (AVs) offer significant opportunities to improve road safety as well as transform mobility, boost supply chains, create jobs, increase equity and reduce emissions. The Autonomous Vehicle Industry Association (AVIA) remains the foremost voice on the policies needed to make AV benefits a reality for Americans,” said general counsel Ariel Wolf.
The new name reflects the members’ dedication to precision and consistency in how the industry, politicians, journalists, and the general public discuss self-driving cars. To increase consumer trust and comprehension, the association has called for all stakeholders to make a clear distinction between autonomous vehicles and driver-assist systems. AVIA is a proponent of self-driving automobiles that take care of all aspects of driving. Human operators are not required for AVs, even as backup drivers; the persons or items in the vehicle are simply passengers or freight.
AVIA also welcomes Navya as a new member. Navya is building AV technology to create new modes of transportation for passengers and goods, with pilot projects in over 20 countries.
