The PA news agency answers key questions about the technology.
20 April 2022
The Highway Code is being updated ahead of the first self-driving cars being allowed on Britain’s roads.
Here the PA news agency answers eight key questions about the technology:
– Can I already use a self-driving car in Britain?
Not yet. Existing technology which assists motorists – such as cruise control – requires motorists to keep their hands on the wheel.
– When will they be permitted?
The first cars with self-driving technology could be permitted for use by the end of 2022.
– What features will they have?
Vehicles fitted with an automated lane keeping system (Alks) may be the first example of self-driving on Britain’s roads.
Alks technology is designed for use on congested motorways, enabling a vehicle to drive itself in a single lane at up to 37mph.
– How will it work?
The system varies between manufacturers, but generally involves the use of cameras and sensors to keep a vehicle moving in its lane without hitting other road users.
– Will self-driving cars be safe?
The Government claims they can improve road safety by reducing human error, which is blamed for around 88% of all traffic accidents.
– What is happening with the Highway Code?
It will be updated to clarify that motorists will not be held responsible if a crash happens while they are travelling in a self-driving car.
– Will I be able to watch television programmes and films in a self-driving car?
Yes. Rules will be changed to allow drivers to view content not related to driving on built-in display screens.
– Why are the changes being planned now?
The Department for Transport said it wants to ensure the Highway Code is ready for when the first wave of self-driving car technology arrives.
