Overseas self-driving vehicles are banned in England and Wales

Photo: Ng Han Guan/AP

Remotely driving vehicles from overseas, such as to deliver rental cars, could be banned after a government-commissioned review.

The review was carried out by the Law Commission of England and Wales, which recommended that ministers regulate the technology.

It is currently only used in controlled environments such as farms and warehouses, but future applications could aim to extend its use to rental car delivery in the UK.

The technology enables vehicles to be controlled remotely, possibly in public spaces. There is currently no law in the UK that allows a driver to be in the vehicle they are controlling.

The commission said “difficulties with enforcement” meant long-distance driving from abroad should be banned “until appropriate international agreements are in place”.

It told ministers that long-distance driving in public should only be allowed if companies get special permits.

The review also noted that a remote driver should be just as responsible for his actions as someone behind the wheel of a vehicle, but there should be no liability for errors beyond his control, such as: B. Connection failures.

Nicholas Paines KC, Public Law Commissioner, said: “Remote-controlled driving is an exciting technology, but before we see remote-controlled cars on Britain’s roads we need to address safety concerns through tough regulations.

“Our advice concludes that in the short term the government would be able to fill some of the legal loopholes surrounding remote-controlled driving with existing powers, while also providing a way for companies to use the technology lawfully, provided their systems are secure .

“In the long term, it could set up a full remote driving control system. The regulations need to address other fundamental concerns related to safety threats and liability in the event of an accident.

“Our advisory paper provides a roadmap on how government can address these issues, while encouraging business innovation.”

Transportation Secretary Jesse Norman said: “Remote driving is already being used successfully off-road in multiple industries and has tremendous potential to provide new services and safety features for on-road vehicles.

“The government must ensure that safety comes first when using any new technology, and the ministry will carefully consider the recommendations of the Legal Commission.”

Last year, the commission also recommended that self-driving car users should have immunity from a wide range of traffic offences, including dangerous driving, speeding and skipping red lights.

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