Applications are now open for operators to run self-driving passenger services on UK roads.

Launched by the Department for Transport (DfT), the pilot scheme is intended to enable firms to bring new artificial intelligence (AI) technology to the country, which the department argues will help to create ‘thousands of jobs' and unlock ‘billions for the economy by 2035'.

The DfT stated that services included in the scheme will be subject to ‘rigorous approval checks', including strict safety assessments to ‘ensure the technology is protected against cyber and security threats'.

In order for trials to proceed, local transport authorities such as Transport for London (TfL) will also need to provide local consent to make sure that the services provided ‘reflect local priorities'.

Roads and buses minister, Simon Lightwood, said: ‘Self-driving vehicles represent a transformative opportunity for Britain, opening up independent travel for disabled people and older adults, while driving growth and creating high-skilled jobs across the UK.

‘This pilot scheme brings that future closer, giving passengers the opportunity to experience self-driving travel first-hand while ensuring safety always comes first.'

Evidence and learning gathered by the pilots is expected to be used to support the development of regulations for self-driving vehicles, which are currently being progressed by the Government after a call for evidence closed in March.

The DfT stated that human error currently contributes to 88% of collisions on UK roads, which could be reduced by the introduction of these vehicles.

It added that self-driving vehicles could support ‘greater freedom and independence' for older and disabled people.

However, there have also been issues with self-driving vehicles, including two active cases being investigated by the US Department of Transport, National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.

Ben Loewenstein, Waymo's head of policy and government affairs for the UK and Europe, added: ‘Waymo is serving riders in eleven major metropolitan areas in the US, providing over 500,000 rides each week. We are excited to bring our world-leading, fully autonomous ride-hailing service to the UK and help make transport in London safer and more accessible.'

Sarah Gates, vice president of global affairs and assurance at Wayve, commented: ‘The UK has all the ingredients to become a global leader in the deployment of self-driving vehicles and today's launch of the automated passenger services scheme marks an important milestone. Wayve has been developing its technology in the UK for nearly a decade and we're excited to bring our supervised passenger service to market here this year.

‘Self-driving vehicles represent a generational opportunity to make road transport safer, more accessible and more convenient for millions of people. Beyond the societal benefits, this sector also has the potential to drive significant economic growth — revitalising the UK's industrial base, creating high-skilled jobs and strengthening the country's position as a world-leading technology ecosystem.'

Information on the pilot scheme and how to apply can be found here.