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Autonomous Vehicles Could Be on UK Motorways by 2026, Per Transport Secretary

Lanon Wee

The transport secretary has informed the BBC that autonomous vehicles may be present on certain roads in the UK by the end of 2026. Mark Harper predicted that by the end of the year, the proprietors of these automobiles should be able to take trips without having to focus on where they are headed. In July, the government declared their intention of introducing legislation to pave the way for the introduction of automated driving on British roads. However, opponents contend that if the technology is not yet prepared, it could result in serious incidents. Mr Harper shared with BBC Radio 4's Today programme that he had personally witnessed the technology being used in California and expressed that he desires individuals to feel confident that the correct safety measures are being implemented.. He indicated that the legislation was in the process of being passed by parliament, and they hoped that it would be finished by the end of 2024. It is expected that certain models of cars with full self-driving capacities will begin to be distributed around 2026. Mr Harper was adamant that the technology would be implemented "progressively" and noted that it was ultimately up to people if they desired to take advantage of it. He noted the tremendous potential of the technology, particularly in its capacity to reduce the majority of road traffic collisions, which are predominantly caused by driver mistake. This technology holds great promise for enhancing safety on the roads, not just for the drivers and passengers, but for all vulnerable road users such as walkers and cyclists. This could be a truly positive outcome for all. The UK has exercised caution over the use of fully automated vehicles on public roads, unlike the US and China who have logged millions of miles in this domain. Certain models of car are equipped with driver-assist technology, which can keep the car in the correct lane and in line with the surrounding flow of traffic. Nonetheless, a human operator must have their hands on the wheel and be alert to changing conditions of the road. You are able to take your hands off the wheel on certain motorways in the UK, including England, Wales, and Scotland, if you are behind the wheel of a Ford Mustang Mach E; however, the car maker is adamant that eyes must stay on the road. BBC Radio 4 Today programme guest editor, James May, enquired whether an autonomous car driving him from the pub was a fantasy, to which Ford BlueCruise director, Charles Nolan, replied that the technology was "certainly not there now". He suggested that there was a path ahead. From my perspective, technology, software, and regulations would need to be developed further. Lastly, the customer's approval and capacity for payment would need to adjust.

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