Green light for platooning in UK

Government to invest £8.1m to fund trials

The British government has given the go-ahead for trials of semi-autonomous platooning on UK motorways.

The trials which the Department for Transport (DfT) said could start next year will be funded by an allocation of £8.1m which was awarded by the government this week.

“We are investing in technology that will improve people’s lives,” said Transport Minister Paul Maynard. “Advances such as lorry platooning could benefit businesses through cheaper fuel bills and other road users thanks to lower emissions and less congestion.

“But first we must make sure the technology is safe and works well on our roads, and that’s why we are investing in these trials.”

The trial will be carried out by the Transport Research Laboratory (TRL), using the funding provided by the DfT and Highways England. A feasibility study has already recommended a trial to examine the benefits and viability of platooning.

Maynard said that the platoons will consist of up to three wirelessly-connected vehicles with the lead truck setting the pace and determining acceleration and braking. Each truck will have a driver ready to take over when necessary.

“We are pleased to be supporting the Government’s ambition for the UK to be a global leader for innovation,” said Jim O’Sullivan, Highways England Chief Executive. “The trial has the potential to demonstrate how greater automation of vehicles – in this instance, HGVs – can deliver improvements in safety, better journeys for road users and reduction in vehicle emissions.

“Investing in this research shows we care about those using our roads, the economy and the environment, and safety will be integral as we take forward this work with TRL.”

Similar trials have been carried out
recently in Europe as well as in the USA.

Green light for platooning in UK

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