National Automotive Research Act of 1981

National Automotive Research Act of 1981 - Amends the National Aeronautics and Space Act of 1958 to require the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) to plan, direct, and conduct automotive research and technology development activities, utilizing to the extent possible the capabilities of other Government laboratories, private industry, and institutions of higher learning. Gives contract or grant priorities to American industrial concerns with production activities in the United States.

Requires NASA to establish and implement a program to solicit and evaluate ideas from inventors and to stimulate the further development of specified ideas.

Transfers to NASA within two years of enactment all automotive research and technology development activities currently being conducted by other Federal departments and agencies and as many of the positions, personnel, property, and funds of such departments and agencies as the Administrator of NASA shall recommend.

Authorizes and directs the Administrator to prepare a comprehensive management program for the conduct of research and technology development activities under this Act, including a progress report on the transfer to NASA of the automotive research and development activities of other departments and agencies.

Requires the Administrator to transmit such program to the appropriate committees of Congress. Requires the Administrator to detail modifications in such program in the annual budget submission.

Authorizes specified amounts through fiscal year 1982 and amounts to be set in annual authorization Acts for subsequent fiscal years to carry out this Act.