While the idea of self-driving vehicles is nothing new, the technology has developed rapidly in the past few years. As a result, we’re starting to see more trials taking place around the world, including the UK.
Businesses of all types and sizes could see benefits from self-driving vehicles. The increased efficiency, safety and sustainability of self-driving vehicles can help to reduce operating costs and lower emissions.
In this blog post, we answer common questions about self-driving vehicles and explore how we might use connected and automated mobility technologies in the future.
Advanced driver-assistance systems. These systems have features to make driving safer and easier, like adaptive cruise control, lane monitoring and assist, and automatic braking. The person behind the wheel is still in charge of the vehicle.
Automated driving systems. These systems have more advanced technologies that allow the car to drive itself – although the driver may need to take control in certain situations. Examples include an autonomous shuttle bus on a guided busway.
How do self-driving vehicles work?
Self-driving vehicles use sensors, positioning technology and data processing to navigate the roads and make decisions while driving.
Here’s how these features work:
Light detection and ranging sensors measure the distance to objects around the vehicle.
Radar sensors detect the speed, distance and direction of objects.
Cameras take detailed images to help the vehicle make sense of its surroundings.
Ultrasonic sensors use sound waves to identify nearby objects.
The vehicle uses GPS signals to work out its precise location.
The vehicle compares high-definition maps with live data from the sensors to pinpoint its location.
Inertial sensors, such as accelerometers and gyroscopes, detect the vehicle’s acceleration and orientation.
The on-board computer uses artificial intelligence and machine learning to identify objects and understand how they may behave.
The vehicle uses information on road networks, traffic conditions and speed limits to work out the safest route.
The on-board computer tells electric motors to steer, accelerate and brake as needed.
If the sensors receive inconsistent or low-quality data, the vehicle will make more cautious decisions. For example, coming to a safe stop so it can recollect or reanalyse sensor data.
Are self-driving vehicles safe?
Yes. For safety, the systems used by self-driving vehicles often overlap and duplicate tasks. This makes sure the vehicle can still operate if any sensors fail.
Are self-driving vehicles legal?
Vehicles with advanced driver-assistance systems are legal on UK roads. Most modern cars feature some level of advanced driver-assistance system to meet current safety regulations.
Vehicles with automated driving systems aren’t yet legal on UK roads. However, they soon could be after the Automated Vehicles Act passed in May 2024. This supports the introduction of self-driving vehicles to public roads. Some highly regulated trials are already happening on public roads.
The new law will require self-driving vehicles to meet rigorous safety checks before being allowed on the road.
In the UK, CAM is estimated to deliver up to £51 billion in annual economic benefits by 2030. This will create approximately 342,000 new jobs on the way to meeting the UK’s net zero target. This means we can expect to see an increasing number of self-driving vehicles for businesses, public services and individuals over the next decade.
Systems built into the vehicles, like eco-driving and speed alignment make sure the vehicles are always running efficiently. For fleets, this can mean an even more efficient operation. This also results in improved traffic flow and reduced congestion.
When part of a shared transport system, self-driving vehicles can be deployed to ensure that the right sized vehicle is being used for the right task. This helps to reduce the number and size of vehicles on the road.
Self-driving vehicles can also offer an alternative to private car ownership. For example, having self-driving cars as part of a car club means not everyone needs to own a car.
Can self-driving vehicles improve access to transport?
Self-driving cars can improve access to transport for people who face mobility barriers. This helps to reduce social isolation and increase access to public services, education and work opportunities.
Self-driving vehicles can provide on-demand services without fixed timetables or routes. This is particularly beneficial for people in places with limited or infrequent public transport options, such as rural areas.
Can we help your business with self-driving vehicles?
We’ve already helped local authorities, fleets, private hire, delivery, logistics and businesses of all sizes reduce transport costs and lower emissions, helping to meet climate change commitments.
Self-driving vehicles will be a part of future sustainable transport. We’re already researching how it will fit into the wider picture for individuals, businesses and local authorities.
If you have any ideas of how self-driving vehicles might enhance your business, let us know. We might be able to support you in your journey.
