Passengers may be getting closer to being able to book self-driving vehicles, as applications opened on Friday 22 May for operators to join the self-driving vehicles pilot scheme.
The scheme will allow for operators to run taxi, bus and private hire-style self-driving vehicles for the first time ever in the UK, with the potential for passengers to be booking journeys by the end of 2026.
The pilot scheme will enable firms to bring cutting-edge technology to British roads, with services enhancing journeys by providing increased freedom and independence for older and disabled people, as well as expanding travel options. Self-driving technology could also make our roads safer, with human error currently contributing to 88% of collisions on UK roads.
Safety will be central to the pilot scheme, which will gather real-world evidence on how self-driving vehicles operate on everyday roads, navigating busy urban streets and carrying passengers safely. Self-driving services will be subject to meticulous approval checks by the government, including strict safety assessments to ensure the technology is protected against cyber and security threats. Local transport authorities, such as Transport for London, will also need to provide local consent to ensure services reflect local priorities.
The government is working closely with safety and accessibility experts as it develops the regulations needed to safely bring self-driving vehicles to our roads. Findings from the pilot scheme will support the development of self-driving vehicle regulations, which are currently being progressed by government, following a call for evidence that closed in March.