UK Government Launches Consultation on Automated Vehicle Regulations

The UK Government has opened a major consultation seeking input on the regulatory framework for automated vehicles (AVs), aiming to shape how self-driving cars will be approved, authorized, and monitored on British roads.

The consultation will run until 5 March 2026 and is part of the government’s implementation of the Automated Vehicles Act 2024.

Simon Lightwood MP announced the consultation in Parliament on 4 December, describing self-driving technology as having the potential to enhance mobility, improve safety, and create greener, more reliable transport options for people and goods.

Focus Areas of the Consultation

The consultation covers two core areas: bringing AVs onto UK roads and managing their operation once deployed. Key issues include:

• Vehicle type approval

• Authorization processes for self-driving vehicles

• User-in-charge responsibilities and transitional requirements

• Operator licensing and insurance arrangements

A critical element is data sharing, particularly access for insurers. The government is considering requiring AVs to share post-collision data, such as timestamps indicating when autonomous systems were active, to help insurers determine liability. Guidance will also be needed on obtaining consent from the “user-in-charge” or data owner.

Tom Leggett, Vehicle Technology Manager at Thatcham Research, welcomed the consultation but cautioned that terms like “where necessary” for data sharing could create ambiguity:"Clear statutory obligations are vital to prevent inconsistent agreements that could confuse consumers and slow adoption. Access to post-collision data should be non-negotiable to support fair claims handling and public confidence."

A Comprehensive Safety Framework

The government describes the AV Act 2024 as one of the most comprehensive legal frameworks of its kind. It establishes clear responsibilities for manufacturers and operators while protecting all road users, including pedestrians, cyclists, and vulnerable groups.

The consultation also seeks evidence on in-use regulation, ensuring vehicles continue to meet safety standards once on the road. Proposed measures include civil and regulatory sanctions, compliance notices, fines, and the ability to vary, suspend, or withdraw authorizations or licenses.

A no-blame incident investigation system, modeled on aviation and rail frameworks, is proposed to allow lessons to be learned from real-world operations. Cybersecurity standards will be required throughout the vehicle lifecycle, including operational centers, personnel, and physical security measures.

The framework also highlights considerations for accessibility and environmental impacts, reflecting the government’s commitment to deploying AV technologies in ways that improve safety, widen access, and protect the public.

Industry Engagement

Thatcham Research has confirmed it will participate in the consultation, emphasizing the importance of timely access to post-collision data and adherence to strong safety and marketing standards.

The government is seeking input from a broad range of stakeholders, including road users, industry participants, academics, safety experts, first responders, trade unions, accessibility specialists, and the general public. The consultation forms part of a wider strategy to harness artificial intelligence in transport, delivering safer journeys, improved access to services, and greater independence for people with accessibility needs.