Overview

This bill establishes a comprehensive regulatory framework for automated vehicles in the UK, covering authorization of vehicles, licensing of operators, information sharing, investigation powers, marketing restrictions, and permits for automated passenger services. It aims to ensure the safe and legal operation of self-driving vehicles while clarifying liability and enforcement.

Description

The bill introduces a licensing scheme for operators of self-driving vehicles, particularly those operating without a human driver present. It sets out requirements for vehicle authorization, detailing conditions for safe and legal autonomous operation. This includes specifying "authorised automation features" (combinations of mechanical and electronic operations allowing autonomous travel) and "authorised self-driving entities" (persons responsible for ensuring vehicle compliance). The bill establishes procedures for varying, suspending, or withdrawing authorizations. It also grants the Secretary of State powers to investigate regulated bodies (authorised self-driving entities and licensed operators) and impose civil sanctions including compliance notices, redress notices and monetary penalties. Furthermore, the bill introduces restrictions on marketing terms related to autonomous vehicles to prevent misleading advertising and provides a permitting scheme for automated passenger services, requiring consent from relevant authorities.

Key Aspects:

• Establishes a regulatory body to oversee the safety and operation of automated vehicles.
• Defines "user-in-charge" and limits their liability for automated driving errors but sets out exceptions.
• Creates new offences for using vehicles without a driver or operator oversight and for causing harm through dangerous self-driving vehicle operation.
• Grants investigatory powers, including warrants to enter and search premises of regulated bodies.
• Imposes civil sanctions on regulated bodies for non-compliance.
• Regulates the marketing of self-driving technology to prevent misleading claims.
• Introduces a permitting scheme for automated passenger services.

Government Spending

The bill does not provide specific figures for government spending. However, it will likely involve costs associated with establishing and maintaining the regulatory framework, including appointing inspectors, processing applications for authorizations and permits, conducting investigations, and enforcing regulations. The exact amount will depend on the scale of automated vehicle adoption and enforcement activity.

Groups Affected

• Automated Vehicle Manufacturers: Will need to meet new authorization requirements.
• Automated Vehicle Operators: Must obtain licenses and comply with regulations.
• Self-driving Technology Developers: Will need to meet standards and specifications in the bill.
• Road Users: Will experience changes in road safety and potentially encounter new types of vehicles.
• Law Enforcement: Will need to adapt their practices to address the unique challenges of policing automated vehicles.
• Insurers: Will need to adjust insurance policies to cover the use of self-driving vehicles.
• Government Agencies: Will be responsible for administration and enforcement.

Powered by nyModel