UK Wants To Launch Regulations And Funding For Self-Driving Cars

UK Transport Secretary Grant Shapps (photo: twitter @grantshapps),

JAKARTA – The UK government announced on Friday, 19 August that it wants a widespread rollout of self-driving vehicles on the roads by 2025. They have also announced plans for a new law and 100 million pounds in funding.

The UK government says it wants to take advantage of the growing market for autonomous vehicles, which is worth 42 billion pounds (Rp 739 trillion) and is expected to create 38,000 new jobs.

"We want the UK to be at the forefront of developing and using this fantastic technology, and that is why we are investing millions of dollars in critical safety research and enacting legislation to ensure we get the full benefits this technology promises," said Transport Secretary Grant Shapps. , as quoted by Reuters.

While some vehicles with self-driving features could be allowed on major roads next year, Friday's announcement also sets the framework for a wider rollout, including for public transport and delivery vehicles with self-driving technology.

The funding package includes 35 million pounds (Rp 615.9 billion) for safety research, which will be incorporated into a new law that is set to take effect in 2025.

"The law will hold manufacturers responsible for the actions of vehicles while self-driving, meaning human drivers will not be held liable for incidents related to driving while the vehicle is in control of the steering wheel," the government statement said.