Zenzic, the organisation created by government and industry to accelerate adoption of autonomous vehicles in the UK, has secured funding for a proof-of-concept consumer safety rating for automated driving systems.
Initially, the independent rating will focus on Automated Lane Keeping Systems (ALKS). The project said this technology could see motorists driving hands-free on UK motorways at limited speeds within a year. The project’s goal is that it will act as a basis for consumer safety rating of future automated driving systems, and it is anticipated that it will later be adopted by consumer safety organisations such as Euro NCAP.
Funded by the government’s Centre for Connected and Autonomous Vehicles, and coordinated by Zenzic, the project will be led by Thatcham Research, and brings together UK expertise in safety testing. Organisations from the CAM Testbed UK will work together to develop capabilities and test procedures that will evaluate future connected and automated mobility systems including ALKS. Partners include Automotive Electronics Innovation, Warwick Manufacturing Group, the Midland Future Mobility Testbed and Horiba MIRA.
According to the project, a future independent consumer safety rating scheme would support the safe adoption of automated driving systems by giving UK motorists and insurers greater clarity around the performance and safe use of automated technology. It aims to be the first of its kind in the world to independently rate the performance of automated driving systems and combine virtual and physical testing.
Jonathan Hewett, Thatcham Research chief executive, said: “The advent of automated driving promises to bring a host of benefits spanning safety, mobility and the environment. To realise this potential, we are developing an independent consumer safety rating scheme to foster confidence in the technology and its ability to control the vehicle.”
“Not all automated driving systems will be made equal. Therefore, an independent consumer safety rating will drive best practice, while helping consumers to make informed choices and trust that it is safe to relinquish control.”
Read more: UK government approves use of automated lane keeping systems on motorways
