Remote driving technology could reduce some of the stress associated with everyday driving. Thanks to rapid advancements in automotive technology, remote driving systems are already being used in controlled environments such as warehouses, agriculture, and industrial sites.
However, there are still important concerns around safety, cybersecurity, and regulation. A report by the Law Commission highlighted potential risks, including the possibility of remote vehicles being hacked or misused. The report also noted that companies in the UK are already testing remote driving technology to deliver vehicles to customers.
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What is remote driving?
Remote driving technology allows a person to control a vehicle from a different location rather than sitting inside it. The driver may operate the vehicle from a control centre using screens, cameras, steering controls, pedals, and live data feeds.
This type of technology is also known as teleoperated driving or remote-controlled driving.
Remote driving systems can work alongside advanced driver assistance features such as:
- Adaptive cruise control
- Autonomous emergency braking
- Blind-spot monitoring
- Radar and sensor technology
- Lane-keeping assistance
These technologies are designed to improve safety and reduce the risk of human error.
How do remote cars work?
Remote-controlled cars and autonomous cars are not the same thing.
A remote-driven vehicle is still controlled by a human operator, whereas a fully autonomous vehicle uses software, sensors, cameras, radar, and artificial intelligence to drive itself without direct human input.
According to the BBC, remote driving technology could also support the development of autonomous vehicles. For example, instead of having a safety driver physically inside the vehicle during testing, companies could use a remote operator located elsewhere.
Nicholas Paines KC, Public Law Commissioner, previously stated that remote driving technology is already capable of being used on UK roads and that discussions around regulation are essential to encourage innovation while protecting road users.
As remote‑driving technology moves closer to reality, many drivers are also weighing up the long‑term durability of EVs, and this guide on how long electric cars last breaks down battery lifespan and real‑world longevity.
Can I own a self-driving car in the UK?
Self-driving technology is becoming increasingly common in modern vehicles.
In the UK, drivers can legally own cars equipped with advanced driver assistance systems, provided the technology meets legal requirements and the driver remains responsible for the vehicle when necessary.
These systems use technologies such as:
- GPS
- Radar
- Cameras
- Sensors
- Lidar
- Parking assistance systems
Some systems allow limited hands-free driving under certain conditions, but drivers must still remain alert and ready to take control.
How much does autonomous driving technology cost?
Several manufacturers now offer advanced driving assistance systems as optional upgrades.
For example, Ford introduced its BlueCruise hands-free driving system for selected vehicles, including the Mustang Mach-E. The system can assist with steering, braking, and speed adjustments on approved motorways while monitoring whether the driver is paying attention.
Tesla also offers its Full Self-Driving (FSD) package, which expands upon its Autopilot technology. These systems can assist with motorway driving, lane changes, parking, and some urban driving scenarios, although drivers must still supervise the vehicle at all times.
The cost of autonomous driving technology varies depending on the manufacturer, subscription fees, and the level of assistance offered.
And with charging habits becoming increasingly important in a tech‑driven future, this article explains how to pay for EV charging, and the different payment methods drivers can use at home and on the road.
The future of remote and autonomous driving
Remote driving and autonomous vehicle technology continue to evolve rapidly. While fully driverless cars are not yet common on UK roads, vehicle automation systems are becoming more advanced every year.
As technology develops further, we can expect to see improvements in:
- Safety systems
- Battery efficiency
- Connectivity
- Artificial intelligence
- Driver assistance features
The automotive industry is moving steadily towards a future where automation plays a much larger role in transportation.
As remote driving edges closer to becoming a real‑world possibility, you can check what your current car might be worth with our value my car tool.