Strategy to maximise benefits of new motoring technology needed
6 Mar 2015 02:37 PM
The Transport Committee calls for a Visionary UK strategy to maximise benefits of new motoring technology in its report on motoring of the future.
New automotive technologies could unblock congested highways, deliver a step change in road safety and provide the basis for rapid industrial growth, but the Department for Transport (DfT) will need to develop a comprehensive strategy to maximise the benefits of new motoring technology, such as telematics and driverless cars, for people and businesses in the UK.
Launching a report on Motoring of the Future, Louise Ellman MP, Chair of Transport Committee said:
"Motoring is being transformed by new materials, new fuels and information technology. The Government must do more to ensure that people and businesses in the UK benefit from this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity."
Recommendations
Following its wide-ranging inquiry, the Transport Select Committee calls on the DfT to:
- Clarify how the introduction of self-driving cars will affect the liabilities of drivers, manufacturers and insurers.
- Positively engage in setting European and international standards that will help UK manufacturers develop products suitable for export.
- Ask the Information Commissioner to update guidelines on the collection, access and use of vehicle data.
- Use data on driver behaviour held by the insurance industry and others to inform policy making and improve road safety.
Chair's Comments
Committee Chair Louise Ellman MP added:
"The public need to be sure that new types of vehicles are safe to travel on our roads. The Government must do more to prepare for a transition period where manual, semi-autonomous and driverless vehicles will share UK roads. Transport Ministers must explain how different types of vehicles will be certified and tested, how drivers will be trained and how driving standards will be updated, monitored and enforced."
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