Are driverless cars closer than we think?
< 1 minute read | November 29, 2017
The 10-point list includes key features and performance criteria:
- Naming: clearly describes automated capability
- Law abiding: complies with UK traffic laws and the Highway Code
- Location specific: functionality is limited to specific types of roads or areas via geo-fencing
- Clear handover: transfer of driving control follows a clear ‘offer and confirm’ process
- Safe driving: vehicle can manage all reasonably expected situations by itself
- Unanticipated handover: adequate and appropriate notice must be given if the vehicle needs to unexpectedly hand back driving control
- Safe stop: vehicle executes an appropriate ‘safe stop’ if unable to continue or the driver does not take back control
- Emergency intervention: vehicles can avoid or prevent an accident by responding to an emergency
- Back-up systems: safeguards step in if any systems fail
- Accident data: record and report what systems were in use at the time of an accident
Automated and Electric Vehicles Bill
The list comes on the back of the recent announcement of an Automated and Electric Vehicles Bill, which highlights how driverless cars and electric vehicles will work in the coming years.
Matthew Avery, director of research at Thatcham, said in order to classify and insure vehicles appropriately, regulators and insurers require this information.
The future is closer than we think
This is an exciting time in the motor industry as new technologies drive the future of the sector. How risk is managed across these new technologies still requires work, but it’s encouraging that conversations are taking place at a more frequent rate.
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