Drivers are scared of autonomous vehicles, new research finds

Many drivers are scared of autonomous cars, new research has found.

Conducted by tyre manufacturer Continental Tyres, a survey of 2,000 motorists revealed 44 per cent are more concerned by the lack of personal control in a driverless vehicle, than seeing the benefits of autonomous technology.

Concerns about driverless cars were raised by a large number of respondents. Thirty-seven per cent said people are becoming too reliant on technology, with 36 per cent saying too many risks are associated — such as hacking.

Half of respondents thought motoring and technology companies should prioritise road safety improvements, as well as making more economical vehicles using existing fuels.

Earlier this year, autonomous vehicles began public testing in London, whilst software company Oxbotica also announced driverless cars would have trial runs on UK motorways in 2019.

Mark Griffiths, safety expert at Continental Tyres, said: “Drivers have to contend with immediate real-world issues like congestion, the cost of motoring and environmental impact, and in some instances technologies being developed now are not being identified as a solution for those issues – yet they absolutely are.

“Future advances will transform motoring and technology businesses like ours need to explain how present challenges will be reduced or eliminated – like congestion, costs and environmental impact.

“The message from motorists is clear – talk less about ‘tomorrow’s world’ and more about real world benefits.”