Drivers want to retain ‘right to drive’ in autonomous vehicles
News
29 Apr 2016
According to research from IAM RoadSmart, 65 per cent of motorists want to retain the right to drive even in the face of significant advancements in driverless technology.
The group carried out an independent survey of 1,000 British motorists and a separate poll among its 92,000 members. 65 per cent of the British motorists who were questioned maintained that they believe a human being should always be in control of the vehicle, with 53 per cent adding that autonomy systems should be an add on safety feature rather than an excuse for drivers to concentrate less.
Members of IAM RoadSmart welcomed the technological advances of driverless vehicles but also claimed they would want to remain in control of the car.
Sarah Sillars OBE, chief executive of IAM RoadSmart said: “Technological advances that make driving and riding safer for all road users have to be embraced whole-heartedly – but British motorists and our members, do want the right to drive.
“Intelligent cars will deliver a step change in road safety by targeting the human errors we make from time-to-time. At IAM RoadSmart we believe a well-trained driver and an ever-vigilant car is a win-win scenario for the future.
“This technology will also prove to be a major boost for business and keep UK PLC at the very edge of technological advance. IAM RoadSmart is the leading specialist in the interaction between human and machine and will play a significant role in this fundamental shift – which will see UK roads the safest, most business friendly and connected in the world.
“The government is due to consult this summer on how the UK can lead the development of autonomous vehicles; we are ready, willing and able to participate fully in this discussion.
“One could see a time when motorists might be restricted to driving on designated roads – and possibly just for pleasure rather than for work or getting from A to B.”
