More than a quarter of motorists are excited about the future of driverless cars ' but even more are concerned that the technology isn't ready, according to a survey by Venson Automotive Solutions.
In the latest Budget, George Osborne announced that driverless cars will be tested on UK motorways from 2017, as the government takes steps to lift regulatory barriers.
There are plan to build a £15 million 'connected corridor' between London and Dover, allowing vehicles to communicate with infrastructure and other vehicles. Osborne stated that the new trials will put Britain in a position to 'lead the world in new technologies and infrastructure.'
Venson says 28% of drivers believe that, when it comes to driverless vehicles, 'progress is good'. However, 30% of people surveyed are concerned that the technology isn't ready and 34% cast doubt on the likelihood of testing happening as soon as 2017, simply because the public themselves aren't ready for driverless cars.
'Truck platooning' ' when fleets of commercial vehicles are digitally connected to follow one other at a set, close distance, using automated driving support systems ' will also be tested. This is reported to reduce CO2 emissions by up to 10% as well as making them safer and more efficient and it was believed to be a sound investment by 43% of those surveyed.
Funding comes from the government's Intelligent Mobility Fund, which has £100 million to invest in a range of transport innovations; however, 30% of those surveyed think the funds could be better spent elsewhere, such as on the NHS.
