Mark Harper, has suggested that self-driving cars might hit British roads as soon as 2026.
UK Although fully autonomous vehicles are currently restricted, the government is making progress with the Automated Vehicles (AV) legislation, aiming to establish a legal framework by the end of 2024.
In November, the UK passed a law that says if a self-driving car gets into an accident, the company that made the car is responsible for it, not the person who owns or uses the car. This is part of the government's effort to make sure that the companies creating autonomous vehicles are held accountable for any accidents, aiming to keep users safe and encourage the growth of self-driving technology.
Harper, speaking on BBC Radio, explained the phased introduction of this technology. He expects that aspects of cars equipped with full self-driving capabilities could be introduced by 2026, with companies gradually deploying them in specific locations. Despite concerns raised by critics about potential accidents involving autonomous vehicles, Harper emphasized the technology's dedication to improving road safety.
He stated, "From what I've observed about automated vehicles and self-driving technologies, the focus is on ensuring people's safety."
Recent incidents in the United States, such as General Motors' Cruise being ordered to remove driverless cars from California roads after an October accident, have fueled skepticism. To regulate this evolving landscape, the UK introduced legislation in November, outlining plans to hold manufacturers, not owners, legally responsible for self-driving car crashes.
The government argues that this bill aims to protect users and promote safety in the growing AV industry. As the legislative process unfolds, the UK positions itself for a transformative era in transportation, with self-driving vehicles potentially becoming a reality in the next few years.
Comments
Post a Comment