1 in 2 new cars have autonomous technology

New research conducted by the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT) has revealed that around 1.5 million new British cars come fitted with semi-autonomous technology.

Semi-autonomous or ‘driverless’ technology comprises of adaptive cruise control, collision warning and autonomous emergency braking, which takes over driving under certain critical situations. This technology is the same as that which is used by fully autonomous, self-driving cars.

SMMT research shows that the foundations of new driverless technology has been laid with semi-autonomous technology already sitting in 1.5 million new cars and growing.

The prevalence and popularity of new car tech has increased considerably in the last couple of years. Only five year ago, less than 7% of new cars sold had a collision warning system. In 2016, more than 58% of new cars come with this new technology.

In addition, 30% of new cars now come with adaptive cruise control and 1-in-3 have blind spot monitoring.

Research by the SMMT also suggests that road accidents could fall by 25,000 a year by 2030.

SMMT chief executive Mike Hawes said, “Fully driverless cars are still a long way off from everyday use, but this data shows advanced autonomous technology is already making its way into the majority of new cars.

“Connected and autonomous cars will transform our society – vastly improving safety and reducing congestion and emissions – and will contribute billions to the economy.”