Daniel J. Fagnant, Ph.D. of General Motors

This presentation will focus on the current state of autonomous vehicle (AV) deployments, as well as an assessment of the upcoming opportunities and challenges that vehicle automation technology may bring. In particular, this presentation will focus on AV implications for safety, mobility, travel behavior, and the environment. A specific use case for the operation of a fleet of shared AVs will be examined, as envisioned for deployment in Austin, TX. Perspectives on recent regulatory developments and their potential implications will also be discussed. All materials that will be presented constitute the perspectives of Dr. Fagnant, and do not represent any official position or endorsement from General Motors.

Biography:

Daniel J. Fagnant joined General Motors in June of 2016 after spending two years as an assistant professor at the University of Utah in civil engineering. He holds civil engineering Ph.D. and MSE degrees from the University of Texas and a computer engineering BS degree from Gonzaga University.  Dr. Fagnant is a member of the Transportation Research Board’s Vehicle-Highway Automation Committee and the TRB Automated Transit Committee. His research on self-driving vehicles has been presented to the U.S. House Subcommittee on Highways and Transit, and has been incorporated into the US DOT’s long-range vision, Beyond Traffic.  Prior to obtaining his advanced degrees, Dr. Fagnant worked for five years in the Alaska DOT’s traffic and safety section, where he was awarded a commendation for outstanding service to the Department.

Daniel J. Fagnant, Ph.D. of General Motors

Biography: