Whilst electric vehicles are gliding silently through city streets, autonomous technologies are paving the way for safer and more efficient travel
The evolution of autonomous vehicles (AVs) is marked by the development of Level 3 and Level 4 systems, which can perform driving tasks with minimal human intervention. These systems rely on a combination of sensors, cameras, radar, LiDAR, AI-driven embedded systems, and advanced computing.
The integration of sensing technologies is pivotal in advancing safe and intelligent transportation systems. These technologies collectively enhance vehicle perception, decision-making, and communication, thereby reducing accidents and improving traffic efficiency.
Regulatory and safety standards
To ensure the safe deployment of AVs, regulatory frameworks such as the EU’s General Safety Regulation (GSR) have been established. The GSR mandates the inclusion of advanced safety features in vehicles, including emergency braking systems and intelligent speed assistance, which are underpinned by sensing technologies. These regulations aim to reduce road fatalities and injuries, aligning with the Vision Zero initiative.
Vehicle safety measures include:
- Advanced emergency breaking
- Emergency stop signals
- Lane departure warning and lane keeping assist
- Driver drowsiness and attention monitoring
- Distraction recognition and driver readiness monitoring
- Reversing safety
- Intelligent speed assistance
- Pedestrian and cyclist detection and warning systems
- Event data recorders
- Direct vision
- Improved car and light van protection
- Improved frontal impact occupant protection
- Alcohol interlock installation facilitation
Great Britain has yet to adopt these measures. The Parliamentary Advisory Council for Transport Safety has led a sustained campaign urging the UK government to adopt and exceed these standards.
Key benefits of adopting the GSR:
- Up to 1,762 fatalities and 15,612 serious injuries could be prevented in the UK over 16 years, according to research by TRL at PACTS’ request.
- Avoided casualties could amount to £7 billion in savings.
- The measures particularly improve safety for pedestrians, cyclists, and other vulnerable individuals.
- GSR measures lay essential groundwork for connected and automated vehicles, aligning with UK goals for transport decarbonisation and technological leadership.
Labour is reportedly “actively considering” making EU safety features mandatory in all new cars sold in the UK.
Key objectives for a more environmentally friendly transport sector
Addressing the environmental and health challenges posed by the transport sector requires bold action. The overarching objective is a 90% reduction in mobility-related emissions by 2050—a target rooted in both urgency and innovation.
To achieve this, several priorities are guiding the future of mobility:
- Advanced vehicle design aimed at reducing emissions and energy consumption.
- Disruptive operational technologies that improve transport efficiency and lower environmental footprints.
- Sustainable fuels tailored for difficult-to-decarbonise sectors like aviation and maritime.
- Digital integration, enhancing everything from autonomous driving to energy optimisation.
All efforts must align with the Safe and Sustainable by Design framework, with each solution undergoing thorough Life Cycle Assessments to ensure it meets rigorous environmental and health benchmarks.
The impact of transformative innovations
The effects of transformative mobility innovations are already being felt across the globe.
- Electric vehicles are helping cities reduce air pollution and greenhouse gas emissions, contributing to healthier urban environments.
- Autonomous technologies are improving road safety, reducing congestion, and offering more convenient transport options.
- Sustainable fuels are proving essential in reducing emissions from long-haul transport and shipping—areas historically resistant to decarbonisation.
Applying for innovation support through the EIC Accelerator
Innovators seeking to contribute to the future of mobility can turn to the EIC Accelerator for funding and support.
The process begins via the EU Funding and Tenders Portal, where applicants will find detailed steps and eligibility requirements. Successful proposals must clearly demonstrate alignment with the EIC Work Programme 2025 and meet the specific objectives of the chosen Challenge.
