US proposes cyan signal for automated driving

In the United States, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration is proposing a cyan light signal to indicate that an automated driving system is in control. According to The Verge, the measure appears in a proposed amendment to federal standard FMVSS No. 108, which covers vehicle lighting.

These lights would remain optional for manufacturers. However, the proposal aims to establish common rules on color, brightness and placement for those choosing to install them. The stated objective is to make the signal understandable and consistent for both law enforcement and other road users.

The choice of cyan is intended to distinguish the signal: red, amber and white lights, along with flashing blue and red signals, already serve other functions in traffic. This provides a rationale for the proposed choice, without demonstrating at this stage how road users would interpret the new signal in real-world situations.

The text also considers removing certain requirements associated with the presence of a driver, including physical controls for hazard lights, switching headlight beams and turn signals. These adjustments concern the design of vehicles without a human driver.

The aim would therefore be to make automated driving status visible while harmonizing equipment. This remains a regulatory proposal: the document provides no basis for presenting these lights as an adopted federal requirement.