World-first consumer ratings that will benchmark automated driving systems are to go into development, starting with Automated Lane Keeping Systems (ALKS).

The consumer ratings will benchmark automated driving systems are to go into development, starting with Automated Lane Keeping Systems (ALKS)

The project is being developed by Thatcham Research and its Connected and Automated Mobility (CAM) Testbed UK partners, supported by Zenzic, the organisation dedicated to accelerating the self-driving revolution in the UK.

Organisations from the CAM Testbed UK will work together to develop capabilities and test procedures that will evaluate future connected and automated mobility systems, such as ALKS – using both virtual and physical testing. This will provide both UK motorists and insurers with greater clarity around the performance and safe use of automated technology.

The goal is for this project to act as a basis for consumer safety rating of future Automated Driving Systems, and it is anticipated that it will later be adopted by consumer safety organisations such as Euro NCAP.

The project is funded by the Government’s Centre for Connected and Autonomous Vehicles while partners include Automotive Electronics Innovation (AESIN), Warwick Manufacturing Group (WMG, the Midland Future Mobility Testbed), HORIBA Mira (Assured CAV) and IDIADA (CAVWAY).

Jonathan Hewett, Thatcham Research chief executive, said: “The advent of Automated Driving promises to bring a host of benefits spanning safety, mobility and the environment. To realise this potential, we are developing an independent consumer safety rating scheme to foster confidence in the technology and its ability to control the vehicle.

“Not all automated driving systems will be made equal. Therefore, an independent consumer safety rating will drive best practice, while helping consumers to make informed choices and trust that it is safe to relinquish control.”

Mark Cracknell, Zenzic’s head of connected and automated mobility, said: “Zenzic is pleased to announce the launch of the Consumer Safety Rating project alongside Thatcham Research and partners from CAM Testbed UK. It is an extremely exciting time for CAM, and the aims of this project will not only provide confidence in safety, for both consumers and insurers, but it could also place the UK as a global leader in the introduction, adoption and use of automated driving systems.”

The project aims to have a proof of concept delivered March 2022.