Self-driving vehicles may become a common sight on UK roads by 2026, according to Transport Secretary Mark Harper.
In a recent interview with the BBC, he suggested that the reality of people traveling “hands-free” and attending to other tasks like emails while in transit could be realized within three years.
Harper highlighted the anticipated benefits of this technological advancement, emphasizing its potential to enhance road safety and facilitate independent travel for individuals with disabilities.
The Automated Vehicles Bill, which establishes legal frameworks for the use of self-driving cars, was presented to parliament in November. The goal is for it to be approved by both Houses by the end of 2024.
Drawing on examples from California, where fully autonomous vehicles are already operational without safety drivers, Harper pointed out that the technology is proven and effective.
He stressed the importance of establishing robust legislation to ensure public confidence in the safety of autonomous driving.
Furthermore, the minister expressed his belief that the introduction of self-driving cars will lead to improved road safety in the UK.
“We already have a very good road safety record in Britain but there are still several thousand people a year killed on our roads,” Harper said. “That could be improved.”
“The final thing is, there are a lot of people who currently don’t have the opportunity to get the freedom that many of us drivers take for granted,” the minister added.
“For example, there are people who have disabilities, people with learning disabilities, who don’t have the same freedom that driving brings the rest of us.
“This potentially opens up a whole new world for personal freedom, getting to work, having the ability to not have to rely on other people.”
