Federal Register #2026-07288

FMCSA Seeks Comments on Aurora's Exemption Request for Automated CMV Warning Beacons

The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), under the Department of Transportation, is seeking public input on an exemption request from Aurora Operations, Inc. for the use of cab-mounted warning beacons on Level 4 automated commercial motor vehicles (CMVs): - Government Buyer: - Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), Department of Transportation - OEMs and Vendors: - Aurora Operations, Inc. (applicant for exemption) - Products/Services Requested: - Exemption to allow cab-mounted warning beacons (flashing amber lights meeting SAE J595 class 1 standards) in place of federally required reflective warning triangles or fusees for stopped CMVs - Applies to Level 4 automated driving system (ADS)-equipped CMVs - No specific product models or part numbers are listed - Unique or Notable Requirements: - Exemption would be valid for five years - Other motor carriers operating Level 4 ADS-equipped CMVs may also qualify if they notify FMCSA - Aurora currently operates 109 Class 8 CMVs, with plans to expand to over 200 by year-end and potentially thousands over five years - Carriers must report crash and performance data while operating under the exemption - Exemption from specific FMCSA regulations: 49 CFR 392.22(b), 393.25(e), and 393.95(f) - This notice is for public comment on the exemption request, not a direct procurement of goods or services.

Description

The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) is requesting public comment on Aurora Operations, Inc.'s application for a five-year exemption. This exemption would allow commercial motor vehicles equipped with Level 4 automated driving systems to use cab-mounted warning beacons instead of the traditional reflective warning triangles or fusees when stopped. The exemption would also apply to other motor carriers operating such vehicles who notify FMCSA in writing prior to operation. The notice invites comments until May 15, 2026, and after review, FMCSA will decide whether to grant or deny the exemption.

View original listing