Mercedes Urges FCC To Move Forward With Auto Safety Allocation in 76-81 GHz Band

Representatives of Mercedes-Benz USA and parent Daimler expressed “enthusiastic support” in a series of meetings at the FCC for an agency proposal to expand vehicular radar use throughout the 76-81 GHz band. “By adopting that proposal, the Commission will advance international efforts to harmonize the spectrum allocation for vehicular radar, promote the development of innovative new automotive safety technologies, including next generation driver assistance, and provide an essential foundation for the development of autonomous vehicles,” the auto executives said, according to a filing in docket 11-90. The FCC sought comment in a February NPRM. The docket has been quiet since the FCC took comments earlier this year, with only one other filing since April. The companies said the commission was right to propose that the use of the spectrum fall under Part 95 rules. “Vehicular radar technologies enable critical safety of life applications, including collision prevention, lane keeping assistance, and blind spot detection, among other safety features,” they said. “Part 95 licensing will provide vehicular radar with primary status and protect it from harmful interference."