The UK Government has launched a major consultation on developing the automated vehicles regulatory framework, seeking industry input on how self-driving vehicles will be approved, authorized, and monitored on British roads.
Running until March 5, 2026, the automated vehicle consultation regulatory framework call for evidence aims to shape secondary legislation and policy development as the government implements the Automated Vehicles Act 2024.
Simon Lightwood MP announced the consultation to Parliament on December 4, which was recorded as a written statement, stating that self-driving vehicles have the potential to “increase opportunities and break down barriers for how people and goods move around the country, making transport safer, greener and more reliable.”
The consultation focuses on two main areas: getting AVs on the road and managing them once they’re in operation. Key topics include vehicle type approval, the authorization process for self-driving vehicles, user-in-charge requirements, transition demands, operator licensing, and insurance arrangements.
Data sharing emerges as critical issue
A central element of the automated vehicle consultation regulatory framework addresses insurer access to vehicle data. The government has indicated it will consider mandating the sharing of AV data to insurers where necessary, acknowledging that motor insurance for AVs will differ significantly from conventional vehicles.
According to the consultation document, insurers will need timestamp data recorded by the vehicle showing if the autonomous system was active to determine liabilities. The government notes that if this approach is adopted, “industry have indicated they would expect further guidance from government on how to address issues of consent by the user-in-charge or data owner.”
Thatcham Research, which has been engaged with government on the sustainable introduction of automated vehicles, has welcomed the consultation but expressed concerns about potential ambiguity in data sharing requirements.
Tom Leggett, vehicle technology manager at Thatcham Research, said: “The Government’s signal that it may mandate data sharing between Authorised Self-Driving Entities (ASDEs) and insurers is a welcome step forward. Access to post-collision data should be non-negotiable, to enable fair claims handling and to build public confidence as this technology rolls out on UK roads.
“However, the phrase ‘where necessary’ feels vague and risks leaving too much to interpretation. Without clear statutory obligations, we could end up with a patchwork of agreements that hinder adoption and confuse consumers.”
Comprehensive safety framework
The automated vehicle consultation regulatory framework builds on what the government describes as “one of the most comprehensive legal frameworks of its kind.” The AV Act 2024 establishes clear legal responsibilities and creates regulatory powers designed to protect all road users, including pedestrians, cyclists, disabled people and vulnerable groups.
The consultation seeks evidence on in-use regulation to confirm vehicles continue to meet self-driving test requirements once on the road. It also covers new civil and regulatory sanctions, including compliance notices, redress notices and fines, as well as variation, suspension or withdrawal of authorizations or licenses.
A no-blame incident investigation process is proposed, similar to existing aviation and rail investigation branches, to enable continuous improvement based on real-world evidence. Cybersecurity requirements will extend throughout the vehicle’s service life, covering operation centers and including cyber, personnel and physical security controls.
The government emphasizes that as automated vehicle technologies develop, they must do so “in ways that strengthen safety, widen access and safeguard the public.” Questions relating to accessibility and environmental impacts feature throughout the automated vehicle consultation regulatory framework.
Industry response
Thatcham Research has confirmed it will participate in the consultation as part of its ongoing engagement with government on AV introduction. The organization has previously highlighted the importance of insurer access to post-collision data as vital for supporting affordable AV insurance.
Leggett added: “Thatcham Research look forward to working closely with government, engaging with its latest automated vehicles consultation to highlight the vital role of timely, unhindered access to data, alongside robust safety principles and clear marketing standards.”
The consultation seeks views from road users, industry, academics, road safety experts, accessibility specialists, first responders, trade unions and the wider public. The government positions AV implementation as part of its wider program using artificial intelligence to deliver tangible benefits to the public, supporting safer journeys, improved access to essential services and enhanced independence for people with accessibility needs.
