A self-driving pod service in Sunderland city centre has been delayed until 2025.

The BBC reports the timeline around the Sunderland City Council-backed vehicles has “slipped a little”. The service will transport people between the city’s transport interchange and its hospital.

The trial would be starting sometime in the new year.

“Our commitment to trialling future mobility solutions for the residents of Sunderland remains a top priority,” a spokesperson told the broadcaster.

Two-self driving vehicles, with back-up drivers who could take over at any point, were meant to be ready for passengers earlier this year.

The report says the delays were due to project timelines being moved back as “is often the case with large innovative projects with multiple partner organisations.”

(File picture – Aurrigo)