Fleet vehicles using regular motorway routes could be the first to benefit from new technology being developed by a group of companies including Volvo Cars and Ricardo.

The technology allows ‘road trains’ to be created using existing automotive technologies such as satellite navigation, radar distance sensors and adaptive cruise control. Up to eight vehicles fitted with the new system - trials of which begin next year with a view to being on the market within ten years - link in behind each other on a motorway at less than a metre apart. 

Drivers can then let go of the steering wheel, effectively allowing the car to take control while they get on with their work or make phone calls.

The driver of the lead vehicle, who is expected to be a professional fleet driver, will remain in control and effectively drive all those linked in behind.

The developers agree there are significant hurdles to overcome, not least how drivers and their insurers will take to a system that sees them pass control of their vehicle to a complete stranger.

However, the benefits could be significant – a 20% decrease in fuel consumption for participating vehicles and reduced congestion and traffic problems for the entire network should adoption of the technology become mainstream.