A new report has claimed that the UK could be the number one country for rolling out driverless car technology, this could boost the economy by £62bn.
The Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT) who commissioned the study found the development of connected and autonomous vehicles by 2030 could save more than 3,900 lives and produce up to 420,000 jobs.
The study found the UK has a “significant advantage” over other countries in developing technology, they warned it is vital the government provides support to realise the country’s potential.
This support includes updating traffic laws and improving 4G coverage along the road networks.
The UK is the world’s number one location for mass-market potential of connected and autonomous vehicles, with £62bn annual economic opportunity by 2030, our new report finds. #SMMTConnected https://t.co/cCkbojSyUq @FS_Automotive pic.twitter.com/gl4ipc6hB5
— SMMT (@SMMT) April 4, 2019
Mike Hawes, SMMT chief executive said, “A transport revolution stands before us as we move to self-driving cars and the UK is in pole position in this £62 billion race.
“Government and industry have already invested millions to lay the foundations, and the opportunities are dramatic – new jobs, economic growth and improvements across society.
“The UK’s potential is clear. We are ahead of many rival nations but to realise these benefits we must move fast.
“Brexit has undermined our global reputation for political stability, and it continues to devour valuable time and investment.
“We need the deadlock broken with no deal categorically ruled out and a future relationship agreed that reflects the integrated nature of our industry and delivers frictionless trade.”
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