Self-driving technology framework consultation launched

Department for Transport asks public, charities and businesses for their views

Road users, industry and disability groups are being to help shape a framework that will ensure self-driving vehicle technology is safely introduced on Britain’s roads.

The public consultation is the next stage in implementing the Automated Vehicles (AV) Act.

Under an existing code of practice for AVs, driverless technology is already being used in the UK, including in Milton Keynes where self-driving road shuttles are being trialled, and Heathrow Airport, which has worked with Oxa and DHL to deploy self-driving cars to trial transporting baggage between terminals.

Passenger piloting scheme, which will launch next spring to gather further evidence for the framework, will pave the way for permanent use of self-driving technology on Britain’s roads.

Simon Lightwood, roads and buses minister, said: “Self-driving vehicles represent a transformative opportunity for Britain – opening up independent travel for disabled people and older adults, whilst driving growth in a cutting-edge industry that will create high-skilled jobs across the UK.

“Today marks an important step as we lay the foundations for this technology to thrive on our roads from next year. We’re consulting widely to ensure self-driving vehicles deliver real benefits: greater independence for those who need it most, safer journeys for everyone and economic growth that puts Britain at the forefront of this global industry.”

The call for evidence asks people for their views on how Britain’s AV laws can encourage strong safety features to be built into self-driving vehicles and ensure they remain future-proofed as the technology evolves. Other areas include how self-driving vehicles are authorised and licensed, incident investigation processes and robust cybersecurity measures to guard against international threats.

The new framework will include rules, guidance and principles. The government is also seeking to strengthen its understanding of accessibility, environmental and cost-benefit considerations.

The Department for Transport is asking for views on the following aspects of the automated vehicles regulatory framework:

• type approval
• authorisation, user-in-charge and transition demands
• no-user-in-charge operator licensing
• insurance
• data collection
• cyber security
• in-use regulation
• monetary penalties
• incident investigation.

Once the new regulatory framework has been drafted, a further consultation will be launched in the second half of 2026 to ensure policy fully meets the needs of the road users, the disabled community, industry and wider stakeholders.

The timeline is designed to support the UK’s self-driving vehicles regulations being in place from the second half of 2027.

The plan has been backed by self-driving industry players, including Waymo, who recently announced its intention to bring self-driving ‘hail a ride’ services to London.

The UK government believes self-driving technology can help transform travel by strengthening road safety and improving accessible transport options – including access to essential services for disabled people, older people and vulnerable groups.

Meg Barnett, senior policy and public affairs officer at Transport for All, said: “Everyday journeys to work, school or fun are essential to our lives, yet disabled people still face persistent barriers getting from A to B. Self-driving vehicles could open up exciting new possibilities for our independence and freedom – but only if accessibility, safety and inclusive design are at the heart of this new technology.

“We welcome today’s call for evidence as an important step towards this. We look forward to ensuring that disabled people’s voices and lived experiences shape the future of self-driving technology from the outset.”

Self-driving vehicles are also regarded as a key element of the government’s growth mission, with the potential to enable businesses to transform how people and goods move across the country. It is being predicted that sector could create 38,000 jobs and unlock the potential of an industry estimated to be worth up to £42bn to the UK economy by 2035.

Mike Hawes, chief executive of the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT), said: “Safety is paramount for the automotive sector and this consultation is crucial to enable safe and responsible rollout of self-driving vehicles in Great Britain. Given the intricacies of Britain’s road network – especially in urban areas – it’s vital that industry works with government and other stakeholders to build confidence in this cutting-edge technology. With self-driving vehicles now firmly on the horizon, road safety, access to mobility and economic growth are all set to improve.”

The public consultation closes on 5 March 2025.