Britain Sets Out Roadmap for Self Driving Vehicle Usage by 2025, Announces Plans for New Laws, Funding

Britain on Friday said it wants a widespread rollout of self-driving vehicles on the road by 2025, announcing new rules and plans for GBP 100 million (about Rs 1,000 crore) in funding. The government said it wants to tap into the emerging market for autonomous vehicles, which is worth GBP 42 billion (about Rs 3,97,000 crore) and is estimated to create 38,000 new jobs. "We want the UK to be at the forefront of developing and deploying this amazing technology, and that's why we're investing millions in safety-critical research and legislation to ensure that we reap the full benefits this technology promises." Grant Shepps said.

While some vehicles with self-driving features may be allowed on major roads by next year, Friday's announcement also sets the framework for a much broader rollout, including public transport and delivery vehicles.

The funding package included GBP 35 million (about Rs 300 crore) for safety research, which will be included in the new legislation until 2025.

A government statement said: "The legislation will state that manufacturers will be responsible for the actions of the vehicle while driving itself, meaning that the human driver will not be liable for driving-related incidents while the vehicle is in driving control. "

In April this year, the UK also said it would allow drivers to watch TV in self-driving cars.

After self-driving cars are approved on British roads, motorists can sit back and watch TV but will be banned from using handheld mobile phones, government plans revealed on Wednesday.

The Department for Transport (DfT) has introduced changes to the Highway Code to "help ensure the first wave of self-driving vehicles are used safely".

A DfT spokesman confirmed that users would not be liable for crashes in self-driving mode, handing the baton to insurers.

Elon Musk revealed plans for a Tesla robotaxis during an earnings call, but "motorists should be prepared to resume control in a timely manner if prompted -- such as when they exit a motorway," a DfT statement said. The government hopes to have a complete regulatory framework in place by 2025.