The UK government has launched a public consultation on the safety principles that will underpin the future deployment of self-driving vehicles on British roads.
The consultation invites members of the public, industry representatives, road safety organisations, accessibility groups and local authorities to provide feedback on a draft statement of safety principles. Responses can be submitted until 9 September 2026.
The consultation forms part of the government’s preparations for the wider introduction of automated vehicles, following the launch of a self-driving vehicle pilot programme last month. The pilot scheme is intended to gather evidence from real-world operations while testing the technology under controlled conditions.
Under proposed regulations, self-driving vehicles will be required to meet a safety standard higher than that achieved by the average human driver before they can be authorised for use. The government has stated that clear expectations will be established for the safety performance that automated driving systems must demonstrate during the approval process.
According to government figures, human drivers currently contribute to 88% of reported road collisions. Officials argue that automated driving technology has the potential to reduce incidents caused by human error while maintaining high safety standards.
Roads and Buses Minister, Simon Lightwood, said:Self-driving vehicles will offer new opportunities for Britain, helping to support independent travel for some disabled people and older adults, while unlocking billions of pounds for the economy by 2035 and supporting highly‑skilled jobs.
The pilot scheme launched last month means people will experience this technology first-hand in carefully controlled conditions, while today’s consultation launch is a step towards clear and permanent rules on safety.
Safety will always come first. By setting clear expectations now and learning from real-world trials, we can support innovation, protect road users and help make Britain a world leader in this technology.
The consultation also addresses broader issues surrounding the introduction of self-driving vehicles, including public confidence, accessibility and operational safety. Operators participating in the pilot scheme are required to demonstrate that their automated systems meet stringent safety requirements and are protected against cyber threats.
The government has highlighted the potential benefits of the technology for people who face barriers to conventional driving. Automated vehicles could improve mobility and independence for older people, disabled passengers and those unable to drive, providing greater access to employment, leisure activities and essential services.
Government estimates published in 2020 suggested that the self-driving vehicle sector could generate thousands of skilled jobs and contribute billions of pounds to the UK economy by 2035.
The consultation will help inform the final safety framework that automated vehicles will need to satisfy before they are approved for deployment on Britain’s roads.
