On 4 December 2025, the Department for Transport and the Centre for Connected and Autonomous Vehicles opened a call for evidence to shape the regulatory framework for the Automated Vehicles Act 2024. Responses are invited from road users, industry and disability groups by 11:59pm on 5 March 2026.
Government is asking for input on type approval, authorisation, the ‘user‑in‑charge’ model and transition demands, no‑user‑in‑charge operator licensing, insurance, data collection, cyber security, in‑use regulation, monetary penalties and incident investigation. A 79‑page document accompanies the call, with options to respond online or via consultations@ccav.gov.uk.
Ministers have set out the implementation timetable. A passenger piloting scheme will begin in spring 2026 to gather further evidence, followed by a formal consultation in the second half of 2026. The government’s aim is for a full regulatory regime to be in place from the second half of 2027.
Trials permitted under the current code of practice continue to inform policy. Milton Keynes has approved an expansion of self‑driving shuttle operations in the city centre, while at Heathrow a DHL–Oxa project recorded 1,300 km of autonomous driving in live airside traffic over two weeks to test baggage transfer.
Accessibility is a core test for the framework, with the call seeking evidence on how automated services can improve independent travel for disabled and older people. Transport for All welcomed the process as an important step and emphasised the need for accessibility, safety and inclusive design from the outset.
Industry signalled qualified support. The Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders called the consultation crucial to enable a safe and responsible rollout and urged close joint working to build public confidence, particularly in complex urban settings.
Policy Wire analysis: the headings flagged by government point to the operational work now required. Authorisation will hinge on robust safety cases and data logging. No‑user‑in‑charge services imply obligations for remote oversight, incident handling and clear transition‑demand protocols. Cyber security and in‑use regulation indicate continuing compliance and reporting requirements once services are live; organisations may wish to map current processes to these areas ahead of the pilot phase.
Economic signalling underpins the timetable. Government cites projections of up to 38,000 jobs and a potential £42 billion industry by 2035, while market interest continues, with Waymo stating its intention to offer driverless ride‑hailing in London in 2026, subject to permissions.