The call for
evidence will look at the Automated Lane Keeping System
(ALKS) – an
automated system that can take over control of the
vehicle at low speeds, keeping it in lane on motorways.
This technology is designed to enable drivers – for the
first time ever – to delegate the task of driving to
the vehicle. When activated, the system keeps the
vehicle within its lane, controlling its movements for
extended periods of time without the driver needing to
do anything. The driver must be ready and able to
resume driving control when prompted by the vehicle.
The government is seeking views from industry on the
role of the driver and proposed rules on the use of
this system to pave the way towards introducing it
safely in Great Britain, within the current legal
framework. The call for evidence will ask whether
vehicles using this technology should be legally
defined as an automated vehicle, which would mean the
technology provider would be responsible for the safety
of the vehicle when the system is engaged, rather than
the driver.
The call for evidence also seeks views on government
proposals to allow the safe use of this system on
British roads at speeds of up to 70mph.
Transport Minister
said:
Automated technology could make driving safer,
smoother and easier for motorists and the
UK should be the
first country to see these benefits, attracting
manufacturers to develop and test new technologies.
The UK’s work in
this area is world leading and the results from this
call for evidence could be a significant step forward
for this exciting technology.
Following the approval of ALKS Regulation
in June 2020 by the United Nations Economic Commission
for Europe (UNECE)
- of which the UK
is a member – the technology is likely to be available
in cars entering the UK market from Spring 2021.
The government is acting now to ensure that regulation
is ready where necessary for its introduction.
Edmund King, AA president, said:
Over the last 50 years, leading edge in-car
technology from seat belts to airbags and ABS has
helped to save thousands of lives.
The government is right to be consulting on the
latest collision-avoidance system which has the
potential to make our roads even safer in the future.
Mike Hawes, SMMT
Chief Executive, said:
Automated technologies for vehicles, of which
automated lane keeping is the latest, will be
life-changing, making our journeys safer and smoother
than ever before and helping prevent some 47,000
serious accidents and save 3,900 lives over the next
decade.
This advanced technology is ready for roll out in new
models from as early as 2021, so today’s announcement
is a welcome step in preparing the UK for its use, so we can be
among the first to grasp the benefits of this road
safety revolution.
As automated technology in vehicles continues to
improve, it must be used safely by drivers in the
UK. By issuing a
call for evidence we are giving those with information
or concerns about ALKS technology
an opportunity to help shape future policy.
In late 2020, we plan to launch a public consultation
on the detail of any changes to legislation and The
Highway Code that are proposed, which will include a
summary of responses to this call for evidence.
