Driverless cars to be on UK roads 'by January'

The government has announced that driverless cars can be put on public roads as early as January 2015.

17:20 30 July 2014

By January 2015, the public may already see driverless cars on the road while the government conducts trials that will last between 18 and 36 months. The vehicles are guided by a system of sensors and cameras.

Business secretary Vince Cable said: "Today's announcement will see driverless cars take to our streets in less than six months, putting us at the forefront of this transformational technology and opening up new opportunities for our economy and society."

Meanwhile, Transport Minister Claire Perry look forward to the testing. She said: "Driverless cars have huge potential to transform the UK's transport network. They could improve safety, reduce congestion and lower emissions, particularly CO2."

However, motoring groups are sceptical about the move.

AA president Edmund King said: "Many drivers are still resistant to change as 65% enjoy driving too much to ever want the vehicle to take over from them."

Meanwhile the RAC said: "We suspect it will be difficult for people to come to terms with giving up control of their vehicle to a computer."