Google plans on testing a fleet of prototype fully autonomous vehicles without a steering wheel later this year and they may technically fall under the low speed vehicle classification. According to a Google spokesman the test fleet will operate  “at lower speeds to reduce the risk when something should go wrong.” They have been testing vehicles already but a person is present to handle driving in certain weather conditions and other critical driving situations. Google does not believe it needs permission from NHTSA to put the vehicles on the road but like other manufacturers needs to certify that the vehicles meet existing vehicle safety standards. NHTSA is currently working on regulations regarding autonomous vehicles.  Learn more:  Detroitnews.com