DfT fast-tracks self-driving vehicle pilots

The first trials of autonomous taxi and bus services without a safety driver will be fast-tracked, the Government has said.

The pilots are being brought forward to spring of 2026 ahead of the Automated Vehicle Act coming into full effect in 2027.

Transport secretary Heidi Alexander said: ‘Self-driving cars could bring jobs, investment, and the opportunity for the UK to be among the world-leaders in new technology.

‘With road safety at the heart of our pilots and legislation, we continue to take bold steps to create jobs, back British industry, and drive innovation to deliver our Plan for Change.’

The DfT says human error in driving contributes to 88% of all road collisions – raising the propsect of AVs saving hundreds of lives a year in the UK.

Technology secretary Peter Kyle added: ‘We can’t afford to take a back seat on AI, unless it’s on a self-driving bus. It’s great to see the UK storming ahead as a global leader in using this technology – making our roads safer, travel easier and driving growth by spurring innovation across the country.

‘That’s why we’re bringing timelines forward today, placing the UK firmly in the fast lane and creating opportunity along the way so people across the country benefit.’

The Government hopes that the self-driving industry will create 38,000 jobs and be worth £42bn by 2035.

Image credit: Shutterstock @Olivier Le Moal