The Department for Transport (DfT) has published guidance for operators looking to apply for a self-driving vehicle pilot scheme.

With the DfT specifying that this piloting process is distinct from typical AV vehicle trials – which have included the use of safety personnel within the vehicle – this scheme will focus on the use of AV technologies without a safety driver.

The department stated that they will have to comply with the requirements for both vehicle registration and approval and vehicle special order (VSO).

Pilot submissions would also need to secure a vehicle listing and if they feature passenger services, applicants will also be expected to comply with the requirements for automated passenger service (APS) permits, the department said.

While some of the guidance does look at the registration and safety of the vehicle, it is notable that the department is also expecting companies to provide information on the ‘risk level associated with each agent's role within relevant facilities', such as remote operations centres, vehicle depots and customer support centres, as well as any cybersecurity concerns.

The DfT and Centre for Connected and Automated Vehicles (CCAV) also expect all operators applying to pilot schemes to have ‘implemented suitable incident management protocols'.

It stated that these protocols should include:

  • Details on the detection of an incident
  • Protocols for a number of different scenarios
  • Operator emergency contact information for emergency services
  • How first responders can gain access to the vehicle in an emergency and secure it following an incident, including stopping an AV from moving
  • Emergency movement of an AV, even if damaged
  • Information required for the extraction of trapped passengers
  • Procedures that will be put in place to enable passengers to safely get to their planned destination
  • Electrical architecture information for fire and rescue services
  • Post-incident procedures to enable passengers, other road users and first responders to work safely if the pilot vehicle is involved in an incident
  • Cooperation with first responders and the DfT and its agencies post-incident, including during investigations
  • The procedure and timeframe for notification of incidents to any required bodies

 This guidance could prove invaluable for companies such as Waymo, which plans to launch its pilot in London this month and has had several safety issues with its US-based operations.