Self-driving cars could be on UK motorways this year - but how do they work?

The DfT claimed the technology could boost road safety as human error “contributes to over 85% of accidents”
A consultation has been launched on updates to the Highway Code to ensure autonomous systems are used safely and responsibly
PA Archive

Self-driving cars enabling drivers to take their eyes off the road and their hands off the wheel could be permitted on UK motorways later this year.

It has set out how a vehicle with an automated lane keeping system (ALKS) could legally be used by a driver not paying attention, as long as there is no evidence to “challenge the ability” of it to be used autonomously.

Here are answers to 10 key questions about the technology:

What is this all about?

The Government has set out how a vehicle with an automated lane keeping system (ALKS) could legally be classed as self-driving.

What does that mean for motorists?

Drivers will be able to take their hands off the wheel and stop paying attention to the road.

When and where will this happen?

It will be permitted later this year on motorways with traffic jams.

Cars will have a maximum speed of 37mph in self-driving mode.

How does ALKS 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.

Does someone need to be in the driver’s seat for it to operate?

Yes. The system will only work if someone is behind the wheel with their seatbelt fastened.

What happens if there is an incident?

The Department for Transport says that when ALKS detects an “imminent collision risk”, it carries out an “emergency manoeuvre” which can involving braking or evasive action.

Is it safe?

The Government claims it can “improve road safety by reducing human error”.

The system also requires a driver to be able to take back control within 10 seconds if a problem is detected.

What happens if the driver fails to respond?

The car will slow down, its hazard lights will begin flashing and its infotainment system will turn off.

What has been the response to the Government’s announcement?

The automotive industry has described the policy as a welcome boost, but some motoring groups are concerned about whether enough testing has been done to allow hands-free driving.

Does this mean driverless cars have arrived?

Not quite. Experts believe it will be several years before fully autonomous vehicles are allowed on UK roads, with some questioning whether they will ever be a reality.

Create a FREE account to continue reading

eros

Registration is a free and easy way to support our journalism.

Join our community where you can: comment on stories; sign up to newsletters; enter competitions and access content on our app.

Your email address

Must be at least 6 characters, include an upper and lower case character and a number

You must be at least 18 years old to create an account

* Required fields

Already have an account? SIGN IN

By clicking Create Account you confirm that your data has been entered correctly and you have read and agree to our Terms of use , Cookie policy and Privacy policy .

This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.

Thank you for registering

Please refresh the page or navigate to another page on the site to be automatically logged in