NHTSA proposes cyan lights for robotaxis, following Mercedes/China

NHTSA has proposed using cyan-colored lights to identify autonomous vehicles, following Mercedes' DRIVE PILOT system. The proposal aims to address the need for emergency responders to recognize autonomous vehicles, as current systems lack standardized messaging. The new regulation would allow optional inclusion of cyan lights, but not require them. Mercedes trialed the system in California for two years and the NHTSA is considering adopting it nationally. China also announced a similar regulation with turquoise lights, which is optional and takes effect in 2028. The NHTSA's draft regulation updates FMVSS rules to allow flexibility for autonomous operations, including changes to turn signals and headlight requirements. The proposal is meant to standardize autonomous vehicle identification and ensure safety.

• Mercedes proposed the cyan lights as part of its DRIVE PILOT system.
• The lights would turn on when the car is operating autonomously and off when it isn’t, and they should never be on when a driver is actively driving.
• The lights should be visible from all angles and include markers on the front, sides, and rear.
• The regulation covers several aspects of autonomous vehicle operation, including turn signals and headlight requirements.

The NHTSA’s proposal follows the proliferation of autonomous vehicles in China, where the government is pushing for standardized systems. The rule is intended to ensure that autonomous vehicles can be recognized by emergency responders and other road users. The proposal is part of a broader effort to update safety standards for autonomous vehicles. The NHTSA is seeking public comment on the regulation, which will be posted under docket NHTSA-2026-1519 at www.regulations.gov.

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