Zenzic and Thatcham Research reveal plans for Automated Driving System consumer ratings
- UK leads development of future independent consumer safety rating scheme
- World-first consumer rating to support the safe introduction, adoption and use of Automated Driving Systems on UK roads – starting with Automated Lane Keeping Systems (ALKS)
- Project brings together globally renowned experts via Connected and Automated Mobility (CAM) Testbed UK partners
London, September 2021: Zenzic, the organisation dedicated to accelerating the self-driving revolution in the UK, has announced funding for a proof-of-concept consumer safety rating for Automated Driving Systems, via Thatcham Research and CAM Testbed UK partners.
Initially, the independent rating will focus on Automated Lane Keeping Systems (ALKS). This technology could see motorists driving hands-free on UK motorways at limited speeds within a year. The goal is that this project will 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, which is funded by the Government’s Centre for Connected and Autonomous Vehicles, and coordinated by Zenzic, will be led by Thatcham Research, and brings together UK expertise in safety testing. Organisations from the world-leading CAM Testbed UK will work together to develop capabilities and test procedures that will evaluate future connected and automated mobility systems like ALKS. Partners include Automotive Electronics Innovation (AESIN), Warwick Manufacturing Group (WMG, the Midland Future Mobility Testbed), HORIBA Mira (Assured CAV) and UTAC Millbrook.
The future independent consumer safety rating scheme will support the safe adoption of Automated Driving Systems by giving UK motorists and insurers greater clarity around the performance and safe use of automated technology. It aims to be the first of its kind in the world to independently rate the performance of Automated Driving Systems and combine virtual and physical testing.
Jonathon Hewett, Thatcham Research Chief Executive comments: “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, Head of Connected and Automated Mobility at Zenzic 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.
About Zenzic
Zenzic was created by government and industry to champion the UK connected and self-driving ecosystem and lead the UK in accelerating the self-driving revolution. The company drives collaboration with partners across industry, government, and academia to shape a world-class CAM Testbed UK, and to deliver a comprehensive UK Connected and Automated Mobility Roadmap to 2030. Zenzic is channelling £200 million of investment, with the ultimate goal of ensuring a safer, more inclusive and productive mobile future.
About CAM Testbed UK
CAM Testbed UK is the centre for the innovation and development of connected and self-driving vehicle technologies. It is the only place worldwide with the capability to take ideas from concept to development both virtually and physically, all within a 3-hour drive. The UK’s comprehensive and integrated facilities are world-leading, with a unique ability to cross-share data and a collaborative way of working.
About Thatcham Research
Thatcham Research is the independent voice of automotive safety, security & repair, advising motorists, insurers and vehicle manufacturers to help reduce accident frequency, severity and costs and to realise the vision of ‘Safer cars, fewer crashes’, while driving standards in vehicle security.
As well as its world-leading crash and track research, Thatcham Research develops repair methods amongst many other products and services within the collision repair industry for insurers, motor manufacturers, equipment manufacturers and suppliers.
In addition, Thatcham Research has administered the Association of British Insurer’s (ABI) Group Rating system for the past 50 years. Group Rating is an advisory system intended to provide insurers with the relative risk of private cars and light commercial vehicles.
A founder member of the international Research Council for Automobile Repairs (RCAR), Thatcham Research has also been a member of the European New Car Assessment Programme (Euro NCAP) since 2004.
For more information, visit: www.thatcham.org