The initial benefits of autonomous vehicles will be restricted to urban environments unless a common framework is developed across the UK.

Companies including Volkswagen Group and Google are working on quantum computing for autonomous vehicles

That’s the finding of a new white paper that says it is important that the benefits of such vehicles aren’t reserved purely for city dwellers.

Developed as the fourth in a series of white papers by law firm Gowling WLG and the UK Autodrive consortium, the white paper entitled, ‘Paving the way – building the road infrastructure of the future for connected and autonomous vehicles (CAVs)’ sets out that reliable connectivity and coverage will be key to ensuring the long-term benefits of CAVs – and that the current digital infrastructure in the UK cannot provide the level of connectivity required.

It also states that ensuring shared/connected transport services work in rural areas, could have massive benefits both for the population and authorities.

The paper outlines how alongside the technological developments required, a new business model is also needed, established on a more collaborative approach. Gowling WLC added that public and private sectors need to be open to new ideas and ready to support new technologies.

To access the white paper, click here.