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Automotive

NIST supports the automotive industry through a variety of programs and activities. For example, measurement science and standards are needed to support the safe and predictable operation of future automated vehicles (AVs). To help meet these needs, the NIST Automated Vehicles program addresses system performance and measurement methods for AV sensors/perception, AV communications, artificial intelligence, and cybersecurity. The program currently is developing a systems-level interaction testbed to help address AV systems measurement and integration challenges.

In addition, the NIST Center for Automotive Lightweighting develops next-generation mechanical and physical measurement tools and produces accurate data and models to support incorporation of lightweight materials in vehicles. NIST has also supported the development of additive manufacturing, a key enabler of new manufacturing methods.

The Research

Projects & Programs

Automated Vehicles and AV Communications

Ongoing
Automated vehicles (AVs), or Automated Driving Systems-equipped (ADS-equipped) vehicles, have great potential to improve our lives by freeing us from the stress of driving and reducing accidents caused by distractions or poor judgement. Connected, reliable, and safe AVs will spark significant

Automotive Lightweighting

Ongoing
The US auto industry spends $600M per year fixing and tweaking forming dies that do not make correct parts. The primary reason that the dies are inaccurate is that the computer models of the dies utilize materials models that are inaccurate. Upon surveying our industrial partners, we determined that

NIST Automated Vehicles Program

Ongoing
Measurement science and standards are needed to support the safe and predictable operation of future automated vehicles (AVs), which have great potential to significantly impact our daily lives and improve the competitiveness of our economy. A FY22 NIST Strategic and Emerging Research Initiatives

Additional Resources Links

News

Cruising Toward Self-Driving Cars: Standards and Testing Will Help Keep Autonomous Vehicles Moving Safely on the Road

NIST and its partners in government and industry are working toward replicating the vital aspects of human driving and building a supporting infrastructure.

Spotlight: Mahima Arora and Autonomous Vehicle Testing

NIST Leaders Overview CPS and IoT Program at DOE Executive Lunch and Learn

Summer Students Support Smart Connected Systems Research in NIST’s SURF and SHIP Programs