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- government unveils proposals to make the Highway Code future ready
- updates will enable drivers to park their cars remotely, and bring forward smarter motorway cruise control
The government has today (19 December 2017) outlined proposals to change the rules around the use of remote control parking, paving the way for Great Britain to harness the benefits of the technology.
Changes to the Highway Code and relevant regulations, detailed in a consultation which launches today, would allow the use of remote control parking on British roads, providing significant advantages for drivers with mobility problems, with further proposals to allow the widespread use of motorway assistance technology.
With manufacturers constantly competing to bring drivers the latest in advanced drive technologies these changes will update the law and ensure it is flexible for future breakthroughs.
Announcing the start of the consultation, Transport Minister, Jesse Norman said:
The government is determined that Britain should lead the way in embracing the safe deployment of new vehicle technology.
Features such as remote control parking and motorway assist have the potential to transform car travel, adding greater convenience and accessibility to drivers, so that they can park and drive with more confidence.
The exciting developments outlined in the consultation have the potential to revolutionise how we drive. For those with mobility issues remote control parking has the potential to make far more places accessible, while even for people with small garages, or just faced with navigating inconsiderate parking it will prove handy.
Similarly, cars with improved cruise control functions will be able to make journeys on UK roads more energy efficient, meaning cheaper, cleaner driving.
This builds on previous consultations on automated driving, and also the recently published Industrial Strategy, which designated the future of UK mobility as one of the four Grand Challenges. This strategy, along with changes to our regulatory framework, will help realise the governments desire to see fully self-driving cars on the UK roads by 2021.
Mike Hawes, SMMT Chief Executive, said:
Manufacturers invest billions in engineering technology to enhance driver comfort, safety and convenience, so these proposals, providing clarity and confidence to consumers, are good news. We welcome governments continued commitment to keep the UK at the forefront of connected and autonomous vehicle development and rollout.
The consultation on the changes is due to get underway today and will last for 6 weeks.
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