Overview

• Minister Lilian Greenwood launched a 10-week consultation on the Automated Passenger Services permitting scheme, running until September 28
• Small-scale driverless taxi and bus pilots will begin in spring 2026 without onboard safety drivers
• The APS framework is a key component of the Automated Vehicles Act due for full implementation in the second half of 2027
• Officials project that autonomous passenger services could support 38,000 jobs and grow into a £42 billion industry by 2035
• The consultation will cover safety regulations, technology approval processes and accessibility standards for elderly and disabled users