People could be able to watch TV behind the wheel should self-driving cars debut in the UK later this year. Vehicles with automated lane-keeping system technology to monitor speed and distance from other motorists could soon be ready for use, according to the Department for Transport (DfT).
The vehicles are not currently allowed on British roads but also come with built-in television screens. Now, under proposed updates to the Highway Code, the TVs can be watched by drivers whilst in transit. The planned amendments to the code are expected to come in the next few months.
The updates have come via a public consultation and have been described as an interim measure to help ease in the new technology. A full regulatory framework is expected to be in place by 2025.
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Users of self-driving cars will also not be declared responsible for crashes, with insurance companies, as opposed to individuals, liable for claims in many circumstances, the DfT added. That hands-free driving in vehicles with lane-keeping technology on congested motorways would be permitted was first announced by the government in April last year.
Automated lane-keeping system technology allows a vehicle drive in a single lane, up to 37mph (60kmph), while maintaining the ability to return control to the driver when required - like when approaching a motorway exit. When a motorist is required to regain control it's thought the built-in screens will automatically stop displaying any unrelated material.
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Car safety experts Thatcham Research described the focus on the driver's legal responsibilities as important, adding drivers need to be made aware they "must remain engaged" and be ready to resume driving "at any time". However, the use of mobile phones while driving will remain illegal.
Transport Minister Trudy Harrison said updating to the Highway Code will be a "major milestone in our safe introduction of self-driving vehicles". She also claimed their use "revolutionise the way we travel, making our future journeys greener, safer and more reliable".
The development of self-driving vehicles could create around 38,000 new jobs and be worth £41.7 billion to the UK economy by 2035, according to the DfT. In January The Law Commission also published recommendations on how the law should be updated in light of self-driving technology. It concluded that human drivers should not be legally accountable for road safety in the era of autonomous cars.
