DESPITE THE rapid rollout of self- driving taxis in the US by companies like Waymo and Cruise, a new report from Consumer Intelligence reveals that UK drivers remain deeply sceptical of handing control to a computer.
The Consumer Mobility Trends Analysis – based on a survey of over 1,000 UK drivers found more than half of UK drivers (54 per cent) said they would not use a fully self-driving car.
Nearly three-quarters (73 per cent) would trust their own judgement more than the car’s systems and among drivers aged 65 and over, almost half (46 per cent) said they would ‘definitely not’ ride in a self-driving car, compared with just 16 per
cent of 25–34 year olds.
In contrast, cities like Phoenix, San Francisco and Los Angeles already have self-driving taxi fleets operating daily. In the US, robotaxi operators such as Waymo are carrying thousands of passengers each week, offering a glimpse of what a driverless future might look like.
Ian Hughes, CEO of Consumer Intelligence, said: “Britain is watching the rise of robotaxis in America with curiosity but also caution. Our research shows that UK drivers are far from convinced. Trust is the missing ingredient. For many, especially older drivers, the thought of surrendering control to a machine is simply a step too far.”
The report warns that unless manufacturers, insurers, and policymakers address these trust issues, the UK could lag behind in adoption. While younger, urban drivers show greater
openness – particularly Londoners, where over 20 per cent would ‘definitely’ try a self-driving car – mainstream acceptance remains distant.
The research also highlights that 36 per cent of UK cars still lack basic driver- assistance features such as lane-keeping or emergency braking. Seven in 10 drivers with safety tech said they would use it more if insurers offered discounts and one in five drivers don’t know what a car club is, despite growing interest in shared mobility schemes.
Hughes added:“The UK mobility industry cannot assume that because self- driving taxis are working in the US, British consumers will automatically embrace them. Building confidence will take visible proof of safety, clear communication, and time.”
The Consumer Mobility Trends Analysis is available to view at/www. consumerintelligence.com/ mobility..
