The United Kingdom has unveiled a comprehensive strategy to accelerate the deployment of self-driving vehicles, aiming to deliver wide-ranging economic, safety, and social benefits while establishing the country as a leader in autonomous technology.
The initiative includes a framework to permit pilot commercial self-driving services starting in 2025, with ambitions to launch fully autonomous passenger services by 2026. The government said the move could contribute up to £66 billion in economic value and support 342,000 jobs by 2040.
The Department for Transport said the framework builds on the recently passed Automated Vehicles Act and is supported by trade associations, safety bodies, and disability rights organizations. The regulatory push is expected to support innovation in the UK’s £93 billion automotive industry, which already invests around £4 billion annually in research and development and employs over 813,000 people.
Mike Hawes, Chief Executive of the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT), said the new measures would enable the UK to “reap the road safety and socio-economic benefits this technology can deliver.”
Safety remains a central focus. The government estimates that autonomous vehicles could prevent 60,000 serious collisions and save up to 3,900 lives over the next 15 years. A new consultation process has been launched to ensure deployment is safe, responsible, and inclusive.
Road safety groups such as RoSPA and RoadSafe have backed the initiative, citing the importance of robust oversight. Disability advocates also welcomed the effort, emphasizing the technology’s potential to increase mobility and independence. “The true potential of autonomous vehicles will only be realised when they’re safe, accessible and intuitive for everyone,” said Matt Stringer, CEO of the Royal National Institute of Blind People (RNIB).
Motability Operations CEO Andrew Miller said the plan could be “transformative” in connecting disabled individuals with essential services and their communities. Julian David, head of techUK, called the announcement “great news for the UK’s AV and tech sectors” and a step toward making the benefits of autonomy available nationwide.