April 30, 2021
2 mins read

Govt green lights self-driving cars on UK roads

The government said automated lane-keeping systems (ALKS) would be the first type of hands-free driving legalised…reports Asian Lite News.

Motorists could see self-driving vehicles on British roads for the first time later this year, the Department for Transport has announced.

The government said automated lane-keeping systems (ALKS) would be the first type of hands-free driving legalised.

Designed for use on a motorway in slow traffic, ALKS enables a vehicle to drive itself in a single lane, while maintaining the ability to easily and safely return control to the driver when required.

The technology controls the position and speed of a car in a single lane and it will be limited to 37mph (60km/h), the BBC reported.

The technology could improve road safety by reducing human error, which contributes to over 85% of accidents. The driver will be able to hand control over to the vehicle, which will constantly monitor speed and keep a safe distance from other cars.

Transport Minister Rachel Maclean said it is a major step for the safe use of self-driving vehicles in the UK, “making future journeys greener, easier and more reliable while also helping the nation to build back better.”

“But we must ensure that this exciting new tech is deployed safely, which is why we are consulting on what the rules to enable this should look like. In doing so, we can improve transport for all, securing the UK’s place as a global science superpower,” the minister said.

“The automotive industry welcomes this vital step to permit the use of automated vehicles on UK roads, which will put Britain in the vanguard of road safety and automotive technology,” said SMMT Chief Executive, Mike Hawes. “Automated driving systems could prevent 47,000 serious accidents and save 3,900 lives over the next decade through their ability to reduce the single largest cause of road accidents – human error.”

“Technologies such as Automated Lane Keeping Systems will pave the way for higher levels of automation in future – and these advances will unleash Britain’s potential to be a world leader in the development and use of these technologies, creating essential jobs while ensuring our roads remain among the safest on the planet,” he said.

Also Read-Single vaccine dose halves transmission: Study

Read More-Poll Panel To Probe Boris Flat Bill

Previous Story

China’s military modernisation poses global threat

Next Story

Barkha bags National Media Talent Award

Latest from -Top News

World Bank Warns of Growing Poverty in Pakistan

Instead of concentrating on rural development to reduce poverty, the Pakistan government has been focused more on increasing defence expenditure….reports Asian Lite News The World Bank has voiced deep concern over Pakistan’s

Hasina Faces Arrest in War Crimes Probe

Two formal charges were submitted by the ICT prosecution against Hasina and her security and defence advisor, Tarique Ahmed Siddique….reports Asian Lite News Bangladesh’s International Crimes Tribunal (ICT) on Wednesday issued arrest

Peace in Afghanistan Vital, Says India

The Indian delegation at the meeting was led by Ambassador to Russia Vinay Kumar who expressed support for independent, peaceful and stable Afghanistan….reports Asian Lite News On Tuesday, India reaffirmed that a

India, Qatar Strengthen Trade Ties

Goyal expressed optimism about the growing economic engagement between the two countries, stating, “Glad to meet Ahmed bin Mohammed Al-Sayed….reports Asian Lite News Union Minister of Commerce and Industry Piyush Goyal met
Go toTop

Don't Miss

UK population to hit 70 mn by mid-2026

The ONS said the UK population was now set to

Britain praises India for Moon landing

UK Space Agency, Parliamentarians and High Commissioner to India  Alex