Fleets should tell drivers to keep hands on wheel of self-driving cars
Fleet managers should advise their company car drivers to keep their hands on the steering wheel, regardless of autonomous driving technology, according to the Association of Fleet Professionals (AFP).
The association represents fleet managers in the UK and issued its guidance following warnings from the Association of British Insurers and Thatcham Research (the motor insurers’ automotive research centre).
Automated driving could put lives at risk
The ABI and Thatcham have urged the British Government to delay its plans to allow Automated Lane Keeping Systems (ALKS) on UK roads from early 2021. The two bodies warn that ALKS is not safe enough to be classified as ‘automated driving’ and that it could put lives at risk.
Hands-free, eyes-free driving
A UK Government consultation into the use of ALKS on motorways, at speeds of up to 120kmh (70mph), finished last week. If the technology is approved drivers would be able to take their hands off the steering wheel and their eyes off the road, allowing the car to drive for them.
Matthew Avery, Director of Research at Thatcham Research, said: “The limitations of the technology mean it should be classified as ‘Assisted Driving’ because the driver must be engaged, ready to take over.”
He warned that current ALKS technology would not respond is the same way as a safe, competent driver to debris on the road; pedestrians on the road; and lane closures on smart motorways.
“Current technology requires an attentive driver to be engaged so they can re-take control of the vehicle when required. Automated Lane Keeping System technology would need a quantum leap in development to be able to cope with these very real scenarios safely,” said Avery.
Employers should be cautious
His warning prompted a reaction from the AFP, where Paul Hollick, AFP chair, said: “Our view is very firmly that employers should err very strongly on the side of caution and the doubts expressed by the ABI and Thatcham over the planned use of ALKS on motorways only underlines this position.
“The objections they raise about the limits of the technology and the speed with which drivers can re-engage with the on-road situation when they need to take over are genuine questions that need resolving before use on public roads is allowed.
“For the foreseeable future, company car and van drivers should be keeping their hands firmly on the steering wheel. That is the responsible risk management position.”
Safety first
The AFP fully supports the development of autonomous driving technology, but says safety has to be fleets’ first priority.
