Driverless cars could significantly reduce delays according to
a new study by the
Department for Transport.
The project used computer software to create virtual models of
different parts of the UK road network including urban roads and
a 20km motorway section.
Delays and traffic flow were all shown to improve as the
proportion of automated vehicles increased above specific levels.
The study demonstrates that driverless cars offer major potential
benefits when the proportion of them on the road is higher than
the proportion of older, more traditional vehicles.
This study is an important first step towards understanding the
full range of complex effects of these technologies. It paves the
way for further trials and research to help ensure the transition
to driverless or automated vehicles is safe and beneficial for
all.
Transport Minister Johns Hayes said:
This exciting and extensive study shows that driverless cars
could vastly improve the flow of traffic in our towns and
cities, offering huge benefits to motorists including reduced
delays and more reliable journey times.
Driverless cars are just one example of cutting edge technology
which could transform the way in which we travel in the future,
particularly in providing new opportunities for those with
reduced mobility. This study reinforces our belief that these
technologies offer major benefits and this government will
support their research.
The study examined different scenarios including the level of
automation, the proportion of vehicles equipped with the
technology and different automated driving styles.
The main findings of the report included that:
- on major roads where traditional vehicles outnumbered
automated vehicles benefits are relatively small, but increase as
the percentage of driverless cars on the roads increases - when
measuring peak traffic periods with a maximum of up to 100% of
driverless vehicles we saw journey times reduced by more than 11%
and delays cut by more than 40%
- on urban roads benefits are seen in peak traffic periods even
with low levels of automated vehicles on roads - benefits include
a 12% improvement in delays and a 21% improvement in journey time
reliability
As well as this study, the Department for Transport along with
the Centre for Connected Autonomous Vehicles is publishing
a response to a consultation
on insurance for driverless cars.
The response details proposals to extend compulsory motor
insurance to include the use of automated vehicles. The response
aims to establish a model where an insurer would cover both the
driver’s use of the vehicle and the driverless vehicle technology
itself. These proposals are intended to be taken through the
Modern Transport Bill.
