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Feature Description for Assessing Autonomous Vehicle Performance
Published
Author(s)
Edward Griffor, Hadhoum Hajjaj, Thoshitha Gamage, Thomas Roth, Wenqi Guo
Abstract
This technical report presents a structured methodology for describing and assessing auto-mated vehicle (AV) features, with a focus on ensuring consistent and reproducible testing across various scenarios. The document delineates a systematic approach to integrating operational design domains (ODD), levels of automation, and vehicle behaviors into AV feature descriptions. Through the development of a feature description framework and a corresponding testing template, the report provides guidance on how to measure and validate the performance of AV features under controlled and variable conditions. Key ele-ments of the methodology include detailed behavior specifications, performance metrics, and scenario-based testing, which are essential for evaluating the effectiveness and safety of AV technologies. The report also explores the application of simulation-based testing to assess AV feature behaviors in a dynamic and virtual environment, providing a critical link between theoretical frameworks and practical implementation. The outcomes aim to enhance communication among manufacturers, regulators, and other stakeholders, pro-moting a unified understanding of AV capabilities and compliance.
Griffor, E.
, Hajjaj, H.
, Gamage, T.
, Roth, T.
and Guo, W.
(2024),
Feature Description for Assessing Autonomous Vehicle Performance, NIST Interagency/Internal Report (NISTIR), National Institute of Standards and Technology, Gaithersburg, MD, [online], https://doi.org/10.6028/NIST.IR.8534, https://tsapps.nist.gov/publication/get_pdf.cfm?pub_id=958317
(Accessed October 9, 2025)