5 Conclusion
78. New technologies can deliver transformative change
in motoring. Reducing congestion through use of new technologies
could free up millions of pounds from the cost of road expansion
and river crossings; that money could be spent on improving roads
in other parts of the network and ensuring that the benefits from
new motoring technologies are seen beyond the strategic road network
in urban and rural areas. Some technological developments which
would contribute to achieving the Government's wider policy objectives
might not be priorities for industry, and some may never be developed
without Government incentives. The market alone is unlikely to
deliver all the potential benefits. The insurance industry has
its own set of priorities that are likely to shape what the automotive
industry does, unless there is intervention by the Government
to ensure that its wider policy objectives are met and common
goods are realised.
79. The rapid proliferation of new motoring and information
technology means that transport safety is an increasingly complex
policy area. Much of the data which would inform a traditional
cost-benefit analysis are not readily available, and some new
technology would only deliver safety benefits if it were implemented
throughout most or all of the UK fleet. There is a risk that technology
will run ahead of Government processes for ensuring safe motoring
outcomes.
80. The Government has a responsibility to ensure
that the most beneficial safety measures are introduced to the
vehicle fleet, as widely and quickly as possible. A long-term
vision for a safe transport system free from death and serious
injury is likely to require the Government to mandate the uptake
of at least some autonomous features, which will require a coherent,
strategic approach.
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