UK DRIVERS BELIEVE THEY’RE BETTER THAN AUTONOMOUS VEHICLES
- 60% of UK drivers believe they are ‘better’ at driving than driverless cars
- The biggest barrier to adoption? 39% are concerned about technological failings or mishaps
- The automotive industry needs to work hard to shift consumer perceptions, despite expert forecasts of safety and economic gains
While the UK government continues with plans to invest up to £150 million of funding into driverless vehicles by 2030, research has found the public is yet to be fully convinced of the technology.
Research from Volkswagen Financial Services (VWFS) has found 60% of motorists consider themselves to be a ‘better’ driver than a driverless car. Casting doubt on driver willingness to opt for an autonomous driving experience and hand over control of the vehicle. And further reticence is seen with views around the reliability of self-driving technology.
When asked what they felt would be the biggest disadvantage of fully automated cars, 39% of drivers expressed concerns about technological failings or mishaps. Meanwhile, one in ten stated that non-active participation could lead to them ‘becoming bored’ on a driverless car journey.
However, when asked about the advantages of fully automated driving, over a quarter (27%) felt the technology would remove unsafe drivers from the roads, while 30% stated they did not think there was any significant benefit.
The counter argument
Despite public reluctance around driverless vehicles, industry viewpoints suggest significant safety and economic enhancements. Research from The Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT) suggests that self-driving technology will save 3,900 lives and prevent 60,000 serious road accidents by 2040, as well as provide an economic boost in the region of £66 billion.
Mike Todd, CEO, Volkswagen Financial Services UK, comments: “As new driverless car technology continues to develop, and politicians move to create a legislative framework for rolling out autonomous driving solutions, it seems the public are yet to be fully convinced.
“Confidence in their own driving abilities, compared to self-driving technology, means some motorists will be reluctant to hand over control. While for others, the active participation in the driving experience is one they do not want to lose. Drivers also express worries about technology-related issues or failings when in the vehicle.
“However, when weighed against the predicted safety and economic benefits that autonomous driving will deliver, the argument for continuing to invest in the development of self-driving technology is compelling.
“With fully automated road journeys still a long way off, it will be interesting to see how the transition unfolds and whether, with time and more information, drivers will eventually get on board with the new automated driving technology offer.”
ENDS
CONTACT
Recent Comments