ISO 22737:2021

Overview

ISO 22737:2021 - Intelligent transport systems - Low-speed automated driving (LSAD) systems for predefined routes - specifies performance requirements, system requirements and performance test procedures to ensure the safe operation of LSAD systems operating at Level 4 automation. The standard covers LSAD operation on predefined routes and applies to automated driving system-dedicated vehicles (ADS‑DVs) and can be used for dual‑mode vehicles. Sensor technology choices are intentionally not specified.

Key topics and technical requirements

• Operational Design Domain (ODD): Requirements for defining the ODD where the LSAD can safely operate (route geometry, environmental limits, speed ranges).
• System requirements: Functional expectations including communication interfaces, data recording for safety‑critical events, and emergency stop (e‑stop) behavior.
• Performance requirements: Minimum capabilities such as maximum subject vehicle speed, obstacle detection (pedestrians, pedal cyclists) and deceleration behavior to avoid or mitigate collisions.
• Functional behavior: Procedures for hazardous situation detection, minimal risk manoeuvre (MRM) execution, driving within the defined drivable area, and state transition logic for LSAD operation (including possible dispatcher inputs).
• Performance test procedures: Standardized tests for hazardous situations (pedestrian, cyclist, cornering), drivable‑area assessments, false‑positive scenarios, and MRM validation. Environmental and vehicle parameterization for repeatable testing are included.
• Data and communications: Requirements for recording system data about safety‑critical events and example message/data recorder structures in informative annexes.

Applications and users

ISO 22737:2021 is targeted at stakeholders involved in the design, deployment and regulation of low‑speed automated services, including:

• Manufacturers and system integrators developing LSAD solutions for last‑mile transit, campus/shuttle services, commercial/industrial sites.
• Operators and fleet managers procuring and validating LSAD vehicles and route deployments.
• Test laboratories and certification bodies performing standardized performance and safety tests.
• Regulators and procurers who need a benchmark for minimum safety and operational criteria for Level 4 low‑speed services. Practical applications include on‑demand shuttles, university or business campus transport, and closed‑site logistics at low speeds.

Related standards

• ISO/SAE PAS 22736 (taxonomy and definitions for driving automation)
• ISO 26262 (functional safety for road vehicles)
• ISO 21448 (Safety of the Intended Functionality - SOTIF)
• ISO 19206 series (test devices for pedestrian and bicyclist targets)

Keywords: ISO 22737:2021, LSAD, low‑speed automated driving, predefined routes, Level 4 automation, ODD, ADS‑DV, performance test procedures.