ITS UK has issued a statement in response to the Department for Transport (DfT) announcement of a new commitment to embedding AI in Transport with the launch of its Transport AI Action Plan, which will set out how DfT exploits AI opportunities in transport. The action plan includes an announcement of fast-tracked pilots for self-driving vehicles to 2026, looking to develop innovation, regulation and road safety in real world applications.

Max Sugarman, Chief Executive of Intelligent Transport Systems UK (ITS UK), said:

“Today’s publication of the Transport AI Action Plan will be strongly welcomed by the transport technology industry. AI tools and applications are already well developed across the transport sector, but much more can be done in utilising AI to support safety, decarbonisation, accessibility and efficiency – supporting skilled jobs and investment along the way.

“Crucially, it is vital that DfT work with industry, arm’s length bodies and transport authorities to support the greater use of AI as business as usual, working to ensure all regions and nations of the UK have the ability to harness the opportunity that AI technology provides.

Speaking on the announcement of further AV pilots, Max added: 

“We also welcome the announcement to kick-start the roll out of self-driving vehicles following the passing of the Automated Vehicles Act last year. Autonomous vehicles have huge potential in supporting safety, providing more accessible transport options and helping the UK become a world-leader in an emerging sector. The publication of the draft Safety Principles and the Marketing Terms Statutory Instruments, alongside these pilots, is a highly positive step, and will help ensure the sector can move from trials to longer term deployment in the near future.”