The UK government says that the testing of driverless cars will commence on motorways in 2017, as it prepares to allow autonomous cars to take to the roads by 2020.
Trials will take place later this year on a small number of minor roads. This will be followed by tests on motorways and major roads to ensure the vehicles are safe before being able to be bought and driven.
The government is confident of no legal barriers to the technology and allowed vehicle trials to start on some local roads.
The tests will be restricted to vehicles with an occupant who will able to take control should the need arise.
It has been suggested by experts that driverless cars may eventually eliminate up to 95 per cent of vehicle collisions.
Barry Clarkson