The Parliamentary Industry, Innovation, Science and Resources Committee has heard from ANCAP as it continues its driverless vehicles inquiry.
ANCAP CEO James Goodwin was present at the hearing held at Parliament House and gave evidence stating that the independent evaluation of the effectiveness of autonomous crash avoidance technologies was now equally important as its work in crash testing.
“The reality of ‘driverless’ cars on our roads is some way off but autonomous technology is here and its increased roll-out will have a major impact in improving road safety.
“We would urge consumers to demand autonomous technology; manufacturers to offer it; and regulators to support it.
“With more than 90 per cent of crashes involving human error, automation is a key element in reducing road trauma and the future of vehicle safety lies with these active and autonomous features.”
Committee chair Michelle Landry MP pointed out that safety issues are central to debate surrounding driverless vehicles and noted that ANCAP, as well as the Robotic Futures Research Team, would provide valuable insight into the future of the technology.
The committee has recently travelled to Perth, Melbourne and Brisbane for hearings and inspections, and will hold further hearings with key stakeholders in Canberra in May and June.