Exponent Inc. has announced a significant update in the framework for automated vehicles (AVs) in the United States, aimed at accelerating real-world driverless vehicle testing. The U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has revised its regulations, offering U.S. manufacturers the opportunity to deploy more driverless vehicles across American cities. The new framework includes expanded exemptions to existing rules, allowing for the operation of vehicles without traditional driver controls, such as steering wheels, on public roads. Additionally, updated reporting requirements mandate that incidents involving AVs or partially automated driving systems be reported within 5 days if they result in fatalities, hospitalizations, involve vulnerable road users, airbag deployment, or require vehicle towing. This development is part of a broader transportation innovation agenda designed to foster domestic automotive innovation and expedite AV deployment.