Autonomous Car, Member Of British Parliament: Add Only Problems If Everything Is Not Clear

Ford Mustang Mach-E became the first self-driving electric car to get permission in the UK. (Doc. Ford)

JAKARTA - The UK's Transportation Election Committee has released a recent report stating that autonomous car or self-driving car (SDV) technology has the potential to exacerbate congestion, create new dangers for drivers, especially when it comes to taking control of vehicles in difficult situations, and pose a cybersecurity risk due to connected capabilities in vehicles.

In a recent report issued by the Parliament's Transportation Election Committee, they are calling for concrete steps to ensure that future steps towards autonomous vehicles are safe and pose no additional harm.

The widespread implementation of SDV faces various obstacles, including public confidence in safety, security, and potential adverse effects on other road users, said Iain Stewart, Chair of the UK Transportation Election Committee, on its official website, September 15.

He also added that if the government wants to fulfill its ambition to implement driverless vehicles, this complicated problem needs to be addressed. He believes the government should take a careful and gradual approach, as SDV technology was only introduced in the early stages, not in a clear context, otherwise it would face the risk of unwanted consequences.

While the committee acknowledged the potential use of autonomous car technology, including in large trucks, buses, taxis, and private cars, it failed to meet many of the predictions made by its supporters, resulting in skepticism.

The report also states that the expectations of autonomous vehicles are excessive. Autonomous vehicles that can operate anywhere and anytime are still hypothetical, but in a more limited form, could become a reality.

In addition, the committee noted that over time, dependence on self-driving technology means drivers may become less trained and skilled. Therefore, they urge governments to regulate changes in driving exams and strategies to ensure drivers understand self-driving technology and have the skills needed to take over vehicles in various situations.

The report also underlines that autonomous vehicles will depend on well-maintained roads, adequate traffic signs systems, national connectivity, and the latest digital road information. However, many of these preparations are isolated and separate from the wider planning.

Although the report highlights various challenges, the committee also acknowledged that Britain had already developed the vision of SDV which was a "British success story".

It is known that Britain became the first country in Europe to allow this handless driving technology but the government must immediately make regulations as promised. Failure to do so will result in significant and sustainable damage, both to the British autonomous vehicle industry and to the country's reputation as a pioneer.