Starting in 2026, self-driving cars without safety drivers will be available for reservations only via the app.
It will create around 40,000 jobs, roads will become safer, and billions could be added to the economy as self-driving vehicle pilots deploy.
Today, UK Transport Secretary Heidi Alexander confirmed that the government will quickly track the introduction of commercial autonomous vehicles on roads in England in spring 2026.
Companies can pilot small “tax and bus-like” services for the first time without a safety driver. This will allow public members to book via the app before the potential development that will become the full Automobile Act from the second half of 2027.
How self-driving cars promote traffic safety
Innovation, world-leading regulations and road safety are at the forefront of pilots, with self-driving cars aiming to reduce human error, which contributes to 88% of all road crashes.
Under the Automobile Act, self-driving vehicles must at least achieve a high level of safety as capable and discreet human drivers, and undergo rigorous safety tests before being allowed on our roads.
By taking faster reaction times than humans and being trained in numerous driving scenarios, including learning from real-world incidents, self-driving cars can help reduce the number of deaths and injuries.
Unlike human drivers, AVS does not become distracted or tired.
New and advanced technologies will boost employment and the economy
Advancing the self-driving vehicle pilot will help the government implement a plan for change, create 38,000 jobs, drive investments in UK engineering excellence, and establish an industry worth £42 billion by 2035.
“The future of transportation is arriving. Self-driving cars could bring jobs, investments and opportunities for the UK to become one of the world leaders of new technology,” explained Heidi Alexander.
Self-driving cars can also enhance transportation for millions of people, making it easier to move more choice and flexibility.
They can introduce new public transport options in rural areas to increase community connectivity and increase mobility, accessibility and independence for people who cannot drive.
The current state and future of the UK’s prosperous autonomous industry
Self-driving vehicle testing has already been held in the UK since January 2015, with British companies Wayve and OXA leading the technology’s major breakthrough.
However, starting in spring 2026, self-driving cars without a safe driver will be available for reservations via the app for the first time.
The UK is already a host of the thriving autonomous driving sector. While Wayve secured record investments of over $1 billion and announced a recent partnership between Nissan and Uber, Oxa has already supported “bus-like” services in the US and has begun to improve baggage handling by deploying self-driving vehicles at Heathrow Airport.
Technology Secretary Peter Kyle said, “It’s great to see the UK surge as a global leader in using this technology to promote growth by making roads safer, making travel easier and promoting innovation across the country.
“That’s why we’re moving forward with our timeline today, putting the UK firmly in the fast lanes, creating opportunities along the way, and benefiting people across the country.”
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