A new survey of British motorists shows that car buyers are positive about the concept of the autonomous car.

The research, commissioned by Bosch, shows that in addition to the current range of active and passive safety systems fitted to modern cars, many motorists would actively consider buying an autonomous car in the future.

Measuring people’s attitudes to both driving and travelling in autonomous vehicles, the survey also revealed that over one third of motorists think autonomous cars would reduce road accidents. Men are more at ease with the idea of autonomous vehicles – 44% think they would reduce road accidents compared to 21% of women.

Despite the fact that the mainstream production of autonomous vehicles may be many years away, the basics of the technology are already in place on many modern cars. Bosch supplies many of the technologies that form the foundation of an autonomous car, including Adaptive Cruise Control and Lane Departure Warning.

In its simplest incarnation, Electronic Stability Program (ESP) is able to assist the driver, by helping prevent skidding and thus keeping the vehicle safely on track.

Newer technology, such as the Predictive Emergency Braking System, provides faster reaction times to avoid critical situations with the vehicle in front and intervene with driver warnings and additional braking support – up to and including automatic partial and full braking. The survey also discovered that motorists are happy with these underlying safety and comfort technologies.

Peter Fouquet, president of Bosch UK said: “Bosch is developing safety and assistance systems for both high end and low-priced vehicle, to create tangible customer benefits making driving even more safe, comfortable and cost effective.”

“Our research clearly shows consumers have confidence in driver assistance technologies such as Driver Drowsiness Detection.  With each innovation, we move a step closer to the goal of accident-free and fully automated driving.”

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