NHTSA rule allows R&D exemptions for U.S. auto makers Audrey LaForest Print WASHINGTON—NHTSA has issued a final rule that will allow U.S. manufacturers of vehicles and equipment to seek an exemption from federal safety standards for purposes of research or demonstration, according to a federal document. The rule allows domestic manufacturers that produce nonconforming vehicles and equipment to operate those products on public roads—potentially speeding the development of automated driving systems and other forward-looking technologies in the U.S. In a statement, the agency said the action "levels the playing field with importers, which until this rule were the only entities able to obtain these research and demonstration waivers and will help ensure that domestic manufacturers will have the same opportunity to develop and demonstrate automated shuttles and other innovative technologies."