Self-driving cars could be allowed on UK motorways next year

Motorists could be allowed to let their cars drive themselves on motorways, using automated technology, as early as next year, under proposals being considered by the government. Manufacturers are expected to roll out the next generation of collision-avoidance and lane-keeping technology in new car models in 2021. They will progress from providing alerts and driver assistance to taking control – and potentially responsibility – for speed and steering once under way. While the technology has been envisaged to help navigate traffic jams at low speed, the government is considering legalising it for use at speeds of up to 70mph in the slow lane of motorways, with the cars automatically staying in lane and slowing down for vehicles in front. A crucial question in the government consultation, launched on Tuesday, is whether the driver will be held legally responsible for the car or whether the car will be defined as automated vehicles.