Cars With Self-Driving Systems Will Decorate UK Highways In 2026

Mercedes-Benz's DRIVE PILOT automatic driving system. (Doc. Mercedes-Benz AG)

JAKARTA - The era of technological developments in the automotive industry is accelerating as time goes on. One of the innovations that stole attention was the self-driving system on cars. Interesting news comes from England, where the local government plans to introduce these advanced cars on the streets by 2026.

In a Reuters report on Thursday, December 28, Britain's Transport Minister, Mark Harper, provided information that by early 2026 it may have been able to see several cars with the ability to slowly drive independently starting to enliven British roads.

"In 2026, the first elements of the self-driving car may be introduced to the public," Harper said optimistically.

Currently, UK regulations still prohibit the use of self-driving cars on highways. However, the latest developments state that autonomous vehicle-related laws will be issued by the end of 2024.

Harper also highlighted the great potential of this advanced technology to improve safety on the highway. As a proactive move, Britain plans to make car manufacturers responsible for accidents that may result from self-driving use, not vehicle owners.

"All aspects of autonomous vehicles and self-driving technology are very focused on public safety," Harper concluded.