Measures to safely maximise the opportunities and benefits from
emerging aviation technology, including drones, and expanding
electric vehicle charging infrastructure across the UK are among a
raft of proposals set out by Transport Secretary today.
With radical changes in transport expected over the next decade,
the Government is making sure the right framework is in place to
drive innovation, keep people safe, and harness the benefits of
new technologies right across the country.
Among the proposals being considered are future plans for a
robust and expansive chargepoint network that will allow everyone
to make the switch to electric, supporting the Government’s
commitment to phase out the sale of new petrol and diesel cars by
2030. The proposals would support even more chargepoints along
motorways, streets and at popular destinations to make them more
accessible, as well as helping to ensure they are inclusively
designed so they are easy to use by all.
Seizing opportunities as an independent nation, the UK will also
be able to implement tougher environmental standards for new
vehicles and capture the benefits of transport innovation and
technology development.
Building on the views expressed in the consultation, the
Government will bring forward final proposals on the Future of
Transport, addressing the systemic changes in transport happening
due to electrification, automation and new digital and
data-driven ways of doing business.
Transport Secretary said:
“This is a hugely exciting time for transport in the UK. On our
roads EVs are set to become the norm within the decade, on our
seas autonomous and remotely operated vessels will increase
efficiency and improve safety, and in our skies drones and novel
aircraft will transform the way people and goods move around.
“Supporting these innovations will not only ensure high standards
for consumers but also create a research-friendly environment so
we can continue being world leaders in transport. We will create
a safer, greener transport system that attracts investment and
supports skilled jobs across the country.”
The consultation will also look at how a flexible legislative and
regulatory framework could bring new aviation technology to
market in a safe, secure and sustainable way. This will create
new opportunities in aviation, such as supporting the routine use
of drones for deliveries which will improve accessibility to
rural communities, surveying, data collection and
search-and-rescue missions. Research suggests that the drone
economy alone could be worth up to £42 billion to the UK by 2030.
In maritime, the Government is looking to create a comprehensive
regulatory framework to ensure that autonomous and remotely
operated vessels can be operated safely in UK waters. This will
ensure the country becomes the destination of choice for those
wanting to develop, test and use autonomous vessels.
Notes to editors
The Future of Transport Regulatory Review consultation will run
from 27 September to 22 November 2021.
We are proposing to amend EU retained law and create a bespoke UK
vehicle standards regime which will be more flexible to allow us
to implement tougher environmental standards and respond more
rapidly to changes in vehicle technology, for example the
introduction of automated vehicles.
Making better use of existing regulations to support transport
innovation will help early and safe deployment of new
technologies. Regulatory sandboxes will help enable new
technologies and harness innovation by taking advantage of
regulatory flexibilities. Building capability in local government
to understand how new transport technologies can meet existing
challenges will help local communities to level up.
The summary of responses to an earlier call for evidence on a
Future of Transport Rural Strategy is also being published. This
found that:
- There is an opportunity for e-bikes to make cycling
accessible to more people in rural areas.
- Respondents recognised innovative new modes including
connected and self-driving vehicles could make travel safer and
more accessible for everyone, particularly those not able to
drive.
- Similarly, drone delivery was mentioned by many respondents
as a means of helping better connect rural communities.
- In due course the Government will now develop a Future of
Transport Rural Strategy taking on board these views from
respondents.
