Motoring is being transformed by new materials, new fuels and information technology. However, the Government must act if people and businesses in the UK are to obtain the full benefit of this ongoing automotive revolution. We found that the Department for Transport (DfT) is yet to set out a comprehensive strategy to link the introduction of new automotive technology to the achievement of its policy goals. It should develop a comprehensive vision to shape motoring of the future in partnership with other Government Departments and agencies. This strategy needs to set out a co-ordinated set of actions to: • reduce or eliminate fatalities and serious injuries on the roads; • cut emissions from road transport; • increase road capacity; • facilitate social inclusion and accessibility of road transport; and • support economic growth. We welcome the publication of the DfT’s regulatory review, The pathway to driverless cars. However, the DfT must set out the detail on how it will reform legislation and regulation to support that review. For example, manual, semi-autonomous and autonomous vehicles may well be running together on UK roads in the near future. The DfT must provide certainty for the public and for the automotive industry by explaining how vehicles will be certified and tested, how drivers will be trained and how driving standards will be regulated, monitored and enforced. It must also consider the issue of liability. The application of new technology to motoring represents a one-off commercial opening for the UK automotive industry. We therefore welcome the leadership shown by Innovate UK in facilitating the ongoing trials of driverless cars in Greenwich, Bristol and Milton Keynes/Coventry. Looking beyond the domestic market, however, the Government must engage more positively in setting European and international standards to allow UK manufacturers to develop products that are suitable for export. This is a once-in-a-lifetime commercial opportunity, and UK industry needs the Government’s help to seize it. (Author/publisher)
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