Leading automotive, technology and road safety organisations have welcomed new government measures designed to accelerate the rollout of self-driving vehicles in the UK, citing their potential to transform mobility, prevent accidents and create jobs.

The Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT), techUK, the Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents (RoSPA), RoadSafe, the Royal National Institute of Blind People (RNIB) and Motability Operations issued a joint statement supporting today’s announcement, which sets out plans for a regulatory framework enabling commercial autonomous vehicle services to launch in 2026.

Government modelling suggests that self-driving technology could deliver up to £66bn in economic benefit and create 342,000 jobs by 2040. The technology is also forecast to prevent 3,900 fatalities and 60,000 serious collisions over the same period, while broadening access to transport for disabled and older people.

Mike Hawes, chief executive of SMMT, said: “Britain’s self-driving vehicle revolution moves one step closer, with today’s announcement putting the country on track to reap the road safety and socio-economic benefits this technology can deliver. Pilot rollout of commercial self-driving services from next year will widen public access to mobility, while the consultation will ensure the technology is deployed in a safe and responsible way.”

Julian David, chief executive of techUK, added: “The UK must make sure it doesn’t fall behind other countries despite the promising progress made in recent years to create new, bespoke legislation for AVs. The ability to deploy truly driverless passenger services from 2026 is a major milestone towards bringing the benefits of autonomy to communities across the country.”

The announcement follows the Automated Vehicles Act passed last year and includes a call for evidence focused on ensuring safety and accessibility for all road users. This is particularly important for vulnerable groups, say disability and safety advocates.

Steve Cole, policy and impact director at RoSPA, said: “RoSPA was formed over 100 years ago to inform the public about the dangers of motor vehicles, then a new and unfamiliar sight on our streets. While vehicle technology has made huge advances since, the core principle of robust regulation designed with public safety in mind remains essential to preventing road traffic collisions and fatalities.”

Arun Srinivasan, chair of RoadSafe, said: “Collision avoidance and advanced driver assistance systems have already proved to be vital in reducing casualties and technology has further potential to prevent crashes. This initiative forms an important step in accelerating the development, deployment and adoption of self-driving vehicles.”

Matt Stringer, chief executive of RNIB, said: “The true potential of autonomous vehicles will only be realised when they’re safe, accessible and intuitive for everyone, from the pavement to the passenger seat. RNIB urges industry and government to design inclusively from the outset.”

Andrew Miller, chief executive of Motability Operations, said: “Automated vehicles have the potential to be transformative. Implementing this technology on the UK’s roads could help our disabled customers be better connected to work, education, healthcare and wider society.”