The UK government plans to expand the use of autonomous vehicles on the road by 2025. The government has also promised new regulations for autonomous vehicles and provides £100 million in financing.
The valuation of autonomous vehicles is said to reach 42 billion pounds and is estimated to create 38,000 jobs.
“We want the UK to be at the forefront of developing and using this fantastic technology, and that is why we are investing millions in vital research into safety and setting the legislation to ensure we gain the full benefits that this technology promises,” Transport Secretary Grant Shapps said.
The announcement will also set out a framework for developing autonomous vehicles for wider uses, such as public transportation, distribution and commercial vehicles.
Regulations for autonomous vehicles are planned to be published in 2025. Meanwhile for the funding package, 35 million pounds will be used for safety research.
“The legislation would state manufacturers are responsible for the vehicle’s actions when self-driving, meaning a human driver would not be liable for incidents related to driving while the vehicle is in control of driving,” a government statement said.
