UK public feeling positive about driverless cars finds study

Connected and Autonomous Vehicles: Revolutionising Mobility in Society, canvassed the views of more than 3,600 respondents and found that this new technology is expected to offer freedom to some of society’s most disadvantaged, including those with disabilities, older people and the young.

Six out of 10 (57 per cent) people surveyed said this new technology would improve their quality of life. For young people, the impact could be even greater, with 71 per cent of those aged 17 to 24 believing their lives would be improved.

Consumers are increasingly seeing the benefits of CAVs, with 56 per cent feeling positive about them. Young people were most excited, with almost half (49 per cent) saying they would get into a CAV today if one were available.

Automatic braking and parking and the car’s ability to self-diagnose faults were cited as features most likely to reduce stress – the biggest attraction of owning a CAV among all groups. Freedom to travel spontaneously and socialise with friends and family were also seen as life-changing benefits, with 88 per cent of people who believe CAVs will improve their social life saying a CAV would help them get out of the house more regularly.