Self-driving vehicle pilot schemes brought forward by UK Government

Pilot schemes of ‘taxi- and bus-like’ services featuring self-driving vehicles will be permitted from Spring 2026, a year earlier than previously planned, the UK Government has announced.

Companies will be able to pilot small-scale services – which could be available to members of the public to book via an app – without a safety driver for the first time.

This will come before a potential wider rollout when the full Automated Vehicles (AV) Act becomes law from the second half of 2027.

The AV Act will require self-driving vehicles to achieve a level of safety at least as high as ‘competent and careful’ human drivers. The government says they will need to pass ‘rigorous’ safety tests before being allowed on the road.

Self-driving vehicle trials have been taking place in the UK since 2015.

The government has also announced a consultation on how automated vehicles should be marketed, to avoid misleading branding, and a call for evidence on self-driving vehicle safety principles.

Technology Secretary Peter Kyle said: “It’s great to see the UK storming ahead as a global leader in using this technology – making our roads safer, travel easier and driving growth by spurring innovation across the country.

“That’s why we’re bringing timelines forward today, placing the UK firmly in the fast lane and creating opportunity along the way so people across the country benefit.”

Reacting to the news, Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT) chief executive Mike Hawes said: “Britain’s self-driving vehicle revolution moves one step closer, with today’s announcements putting the country on track to reap the road safety and socio-economic benefits this technology can deliver.

“Pilot rollout of commercial self-driving services from next year will widen public access to mobility, while the consultation will ensure the technology is deployed in a safe and responsible way. 

“These latest measures will help Britain remain a world leader in the development and introduction of self-driving vehicles, a manifest application of AI at its finest.”