The UK is set to become a global leader in self-driving technology with the recent passage of the Automated Vehicles Act into law. This groundbreaking legislation promises to transform road travel, improve safety, and create thousands of new jobs. The Act was announced during the King’s Speech and received Royal Assent on May 20, 2024. With this new law, self-driving cars are expected to be on British roads by 2026, marking a significant milestone in the advancement of autonomous vehicle technology.
The Automated Vehicles Act & The Future of Road Safety
The AV Act aims to drastically reduce road collisions caused by human error, which currently accounts for 88% of accidents. Self-driving vehicles will be required to meet rigorous safety standards, ensuring they perform at least as well as competent human drivers. This move is expected to lower incidents related to drink driving, speeding, tiredness, and inattention. Transport Secretary Mark Harper stated:
“Britain stands at the threshold of an automotive revolution and this new law is a milestone moment for our self-driving industry, which has the potential to change the way we travel forever.”
The Automated Vehicles Bill has just become an Act. Learn more about what it will do here 👇 pic.twitter.com/GyGj4r2qOT
— Department for Transport (@transportgovuk) May 22, 2024
Economic Impact and Job Creation
The self-driving vehicle industry is projected to be worth up to £42 billion, potentially creating 38,000 new jobs by 2035. The Act strengthens the UK’s position at the forefront of this rapidly growing sector, fostering innovation and attracting significant investment. For instance, Wayve recently secured over $1 billion to enhance its AI technology for autonomous vehicles. Alex Kendall, Co-founder and CEO of Wayve, emphasized:
“This is a critical milestone for the UK’s deployment of self-driving technology and cements the UK as a global leader in regulating this sector.”
Technology and Trials
The UK has been a hub for self-driving trials, with companies like Wayve and Oxa leading the way. These trials have been facilitated by the UK’s Code of Practice for automated vehicle trialling, which provides a clear framework for safe testing. The new law builds on this foundation, setting the stage for a broader rollout of self-driving cars by 2026. Paul Newman, Founder and CTO of Oxa, noted, “The act gives the UK new momentum as developers like Oxa will need to comply with the world’s most comprehensive autonomous vehicle laws to deploy technology in vehicles here.”
Legislation Details
The AV Act establishes a comprehensive legal framework, detailing liability and safety requirements for self-driving vehicles. This includes the creation of an independent incident investigation function to ensure ongoing safety and compliance. Companies will be obligated to maintain and update their vehicles to adhere to British laws continuously. Richard Cuerden, Director at the Transport Research Laboratory (TRL), praised the bill, stating:
“The promise is more accessible, safer and greener journeys for goods and people, and at TRL we are working hard to ensure that this is delivered.”
Prominent Voices
Industry leaders have praised the new legislation. Mike Hawes, Chief Executive of the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT), commented:
“This is a watershed moment for UK automotive innovation and road safety in the UK. Self-driving vehicles will revolutionize our society, and this new law will help turn ambition into reality.”
What Do You Think About the Future of Self-Driving Cars in the UK?
The Automated Vehicles Act marks a pivotal moment for the UK’s automotive and tech industries. With the groundwork laid for a safer, smarter, and more sustainable future of transport, the UK is set to lead the world in self-driving technology. We encourage our readers to share their thoughts and comments on this groundbreaking development and how they believe it will impact the future of transport.
Thanks to GOV.UK for the image.