Overview

This bill amends the Automated and Electric Vehicles Bill, clarifying legal definitions related to self-driving cars and expanding regulations concerning the provision of charging and refuelling points for electric vehicles. It also introduces reporting requirements to assess the effectiveness of these regulations.

Description

The amendments clarify that self-driving vehicles may legally operate on roads and public places in Great Britain under specific circumstances. The bill requires reports to Parliament on the impact of regulations concerning self-driving cars and the insurance arrangements for such vehicles. Significant changes are made to regulations concerning electric vehicle charging and refueling infrastructure. The amendments require the inclusion of "refuelling" alongside "charging" throughout the bill, reflecting the use of alternative fuels. New regulations allow for elected mayors to request the imposition of requirements on large fuel retailers in relation to charging and refueling infrastructure within their area. These regulations must be preceded by public consultation and the relevant local authorities must be consulted. Safeguards are included requiring parliamentary approval for certain amendments to regulations defining "large fuel retailer" and "service area operator". Finally, the bill mandates regular reports to Parliament on the impact and effectiveness of these regulations.

Government Spending

The bill does not directly specify any figures for government spending. The costs will depend on the resources needed for the preparation and publication of the required reports, as well as the development and enforcement of new regulations.

Groups Affected

• Manufacturers and developers of self-driving vehicles: Affected by the clarification of legal parameters for operation of their vehicles.
• Insurance companies: Impacted by the need to adapt insurance policies to cover self-driving vehicles.
• Electric vehicle drivers: May benefit from improved charging/refuelling infrastructure as a result of new regulations.
• Large fuel retailers: Subject to potential regulations imposed by elected mayors concerning charging and refuelling infrastructure.
• Local authorities: Involved in the consultation process for new regulations related to charging/refuelling infrastructure.
• Elected mayors: Granted increased power to request regulations concerning charging infrastructure within their areas.
• Parliament: Responsible for reviewing reports on the effectiveness of new regulations.

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