Autonomous Vehicles On UK Roads, An Application Prospect In 2025

Image Source: Reuters

Under new plans announced by the UK government, application of self-driving vehicles might be a possibility starting from 2025.

The plan involves an investment of GBP 100,000,000 (MYR 528,288,694), including GBP 35,000,000 (MYR 184,901,043) to carry out safety studies.

According to the government, chances are that some cars, coaches and lorries with self-driving technology might even be approved for road use as early as next year.

Image Source: Baidu Inc.

Notably, the UK government is moving towards this approach to benefit from the growing autonomous vehicle (AV) market. 

Of which, stated Reuters is now valued at GBP 42,000,000,000 (MYR 221,853,922,500), and are expected to create up to 38,000 job opportunities.

Commented UK’s transport secretary, Grant Shapps, this step is also considered to position the country as a pioneer in the development and use of this advanced technology.

Shapps concluded, “Regarding the law on the use of this technology, the legislation will hold the vehicle manufacturer responsible for the actions of the vehicle when the self-driving function is used, meaning that the human driver will not be liable in the event of an incident while the vehicle is in control, driving autonomously."

Image Source: Reuters