Connected and autonomous vehicles will improve quality of life, study shows

According to research published by the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders, connected and autonomous vehicles will improve the life for six in 10 people.

The Connected and Autonomous Vehicles (CAVs): Revolutionising Mobility in Society study found that more than 3,600 respondents said this technology will offer freedom to some of society’s most disadvantaged, including those with disabilities, older people and the young.

The research also shows that CAVs have the potential to reduce social exclusion significantly.

Six out of 10 (57 per cent) people surveyed said this new technology would improve their quality of life. In addition, 71 per cent of those aged 17 to 24 believed their lives would be improved. Fifty-six per cent of consumers of CAVs said they were feeling positive about them.

Young people were most excited, with almost half (49 per cent) saying they would get into a CAV today if one were available.

Automatic braking and parking and the car’s ability to self-diagnose faults were cited as features most likely to reduce stress.

Freedom to travel spontaneously and socialise with friends and family were also seen as life-changing benefits, with 88 per cent of people who believe CAVs will improve their social life saying a CAV would help them get out of the house more regularly.