The UK government has stated that self-driving vehicles could be allowed on UK roads by as early as the end of this year. In addition to this, the Department for Transport have said that the controversial automated lane-keeping systems (ALKS) would be the first type of hands-free driving to be legalised.
UNN’s Oliver Down understands that the technology controls the position and speed of a car in a single lane but only up to speeds of 37mph. Insurers have already warned that the government’s definition of ALKS as ‘self-driving’ is misleading.
However, following a consultation last year, the government have unequivocally said that vehicles with ALKS technology can be legally defined as self-driving, “as long as they receive GB type approval and that there is no evidence to challenge the vehicle’s ability to self-drive”. According to the government, drivers will not be required to monitor the road or keep their hands on the wheel when the vehicle is driving itself.
Transport Minister Rachel Maclean has said: “This is a major step for the safe use of self-driving vehicles in the UK, making future journeys greener, easier and more reliable while also helping the nation to build back better. But we must ensure that this exciting new tech is deployed safely, which is why we are consulting on what the rules to enable this should look like”.
However, Thatcham Research, which conducts safety tests for motor insurers, has urged caution. They have said: “ALKS as currently proposed by the government are not automated. They are assisted driving systems as they rely on the driver to take back control. Aside from the lack of technical capabilities, by calling ALKS automated our concern also is that the UK government is contributing to the confusion and frequent misuse of assisted driving systems that have unfortunately already led to many tragic deaths. Consumers will expect the car to do the job of a driver, which current models can’t do”.
Current Affairs Correspondent | My name is Oliver Down I am 22, and a staunch brexiteer. I am a Bristolian lad who studied politics in Leicester. I believe in free speech and accurate journalism and I won’t be afraid to give you “the other side” of the story!
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