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Automated lane keeping systems approved by UN regulations

04 February 2021

The use of automated lane keeping systems (ALKS) has been approved by United Nations regulations that came into force in Britain.

The decision follows a call for evidence in August 2020 which offered anyone with knowledge or concerns surrounding ALKS “opportunity to help shape future policy’.

The Department for Transport (DfT) has suggested that the technology could be used in stop-start traffic of up to 37MPH and would be confined to roads where traffic moving in opposite directions is physically separated and no pedestrians or cyclists are allowed.

New models from Tesla and Mercedes (S-class) are due to arrive this year and are expected to be among the first eligible vehicles capable of safely driving themselves.

Lilian Greenwood, a Labour member of the transport select committee, has expressed concern about the safety of ALKS. She said, “It simply isn’t safe for drivers to ignore the road and do other things while the technology is unable to respond safely to the unexpected.”

The Department for Transport (DfT) said, “We have sought views on the use of the automated lane-keeping system to pave the way towards introducing it safely on UK roads. No decision has yet been made on whether to allow ALKS to operate up to 70mph.”

Thatcham Research and Euro NCAP have partnered to create an Assisted Driving Graded system which gives motorists the ‘crucial insight they need to select and use today’s Assisted Driving technology safely’.  

Matthew Avery, director of research at Thatcham Research said, “The systems that are currently allowed on our roads are there to assist the driver – but do not replace them.

“Unfortunately, there are motorists that believe they can purchase a self-driving car today. This is a dangerous misconception that sees too much control handed to vehicles that are not ready to cope with all situations”.

We at Marshall Leasing are following the development of automated driving technology closely, and trust that you find this information useful. If you would like to connect with our team of fleet experts, please do not hesitate to get in touch with us by emailing info@marshall-leasing.co.uk or calling 01480 414541. 

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