Self-driving cars coming to a road near you soon

Driverless cars could start rolling out onto British roads from next year, following an announcement from the government.

Currently autonomous cars – such as those being developed by Google – are restricted to private roads in Britain due, in part, to insurance issues.

But Whitehall is keen to give the UK a head start in the emerging self-driving car sector and has given the green light for the wider use of driverless vehicles.

Business Secretary Vince Cable has announced that they could be permitted on UK roads by January 2015.

Under government plans, UK cities can bid for a share of a £10m competition to host a driverless cars trial.

The government is keen for cities to aid businesses and academics in the development of driverless cars and the economic benefits they may bring.

Three cities will be chosen to host the 18-36 month trials which will start in January 2015.

The competition is being funded by Department for Business, Innovation and Skills and the Department for Transport, and in partnership with the UK’s innovation agency, the Technology Strategy Board.

Vince Cable said: “The excellence of our scientists and engineers has established the UK as pioneers in the development of driverless vehicles through pilot projects.

"Today’s announcement will see driverless cars take to our streets in less than six months, putting us at the forefront of this transformational technology and opening new opportunities for our economy and society.”

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