Driverless cars could be on some UK roads by the end of 2026 transport secretary says

Get the free Morning Headlines email for news from our reporters across the world Sign up to our free Morning Headlines email Sign up to our free Morning Headlines email SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy policy Self-driving cars could be on the UK’s roads by 2026, the transport secretary has said. Vehicles that take care of themselves and the driver are the future, according to the government, which in the King’s Speech said that “self-driving vehicles will make transport safer, more convenient and more accessible, improving the lives of millions.” open image in gallery Future fit? Government graphic in a publication to promote self-driving vehicles Mr Harper told BBC Radio 4’s Today programme: “The legislation is going through Parliament at the moment so hopefully we’ll get that through Parliament by the end of 2024. “This technology exists, it works and what we’re doing is putting in place the proper legislation so that people can have full confidence in the safety of this technology, which I think is one of the important things we’ve got to do.” Asked if people will be able to travel in self-driving vehicles “with your hands off the wheel, doing your emails” in 2026, Mr Harper replied: “Yes, and I think that’s when companies are expecting – in 2026, during that year – that we’ll start seeing this technology rolled out.” open image in gallery Transport Secretary Mark Harper having a ride in a self-driving car Responding to a question by former Top Gear presenter James May – who was Today’s guest editor on Wednesday – about why the Government is supporting the development of autonomous driving, Mr Harper claimed there are “a few” reasons.