Motorists could see the first types of self-driving vehicles on British roads for the first time later this year, the UK Department for Transport has announced.
Following a call for evidence, the government has set out how vehicles fitted with automated lane keeping system (ALKS) technology could legally be defined as self-driving, as long as they receive GB type approval and that there is no evidence to challenge the vehicle’s ability to self-drive.
Designed for use on a motorway in slow traffic, at speeds of up to 37mph, ALKS enables a vehicle to drive itself in a single lane, while maintaining the ability to safely return control to the driver when required.
According to the DfT, the technology could improve road safety by reducing human error, which reportedly contributes to over 85% of accidents. For example, the driver will be able to hand control over to the vehicle, which will constantly monitor speed and keep a safe distance from other cars.
The announcement comes as a consultation on The Highway Code rules is launched to ensure the first wave of the technology is used safely and responsibly. This consultation will conclude on 28 May 2021.
UK transport minister Rachel Maclean said: “This is a major step for the safe use of self-driving vehicles in the UK, making future journeys greener, easier and more reliable while also helping the nation to build back better.
“But we must ensure that this exciting new tech is deployed safely, which is why we are consulting on what the rules to enable this should look like. In doing so, we can improve transport for all, securing the UK’s place as a global science superpower.”
It’s believed that self-driving technology in cars, buses and delivery vehicles could help end urban congestion, with traffic lights and vehicles able to communicate to each other to keep traffic flowing, thereby reducing emissions and improving air quality in towns and cities.
Furthermore, advocates say the technology could also improve access to transport for people with mobility issues and lead to more reliable public transport services, helping to level-up access to transport in historically disconnected and rural areas.
As previously reported by CiTTi, the government has predicted that connected and autonomous vehicle technology could create around 38,000 new jobs in a UK industry that could be worth £42bn by 2035. Over 80% of these jobs are expected to be in professional, technical and skilled trade occupations.
SMMT chief executive Mike Hawes welcomed the news and said the decision to approve ALKS will put Britain in the vanguard of road safety and automotive technology.
“Automated driving systems could prevent 47,000 serious accidents and save 3,900 lives over the next decade through their ability to reduce the single largest cause of road accidents – human error,” said Hawes.
“Technologies such as automated lane keeping systems will pave the way for higher levels of automation in future – and these advances will unleash Britain’s potential to be a world leader in the development and use of these technologies, creating essential jobs while ensuring our roads remain among the safest on the planet.”
