Car manufacturer Ford has announced that it will produce fully autonomous cars without steering wheels by 2021.

Jonathan Smith from WMG comments on the significance of this:

"It’s great news that a volume vehicle manufacturer such as Ford has taken the step to publicly commit to mass produce a fully autonomous vehicle within the next 5 years.

It’s of interest Ford’s solution is anticipated to be part of an urban mobility (or driverless taxi) service, confirming our view that the introduction of autonomous vehicles will result in a shift to new business models and shape a new definition of transport: with economic, social and environmental benefits.

This re-emphasises the importance of research that will contribute to getting the technology right to enhance wider public acceptance of autonomous vehicles."

Further information, contact:

Luke Walton, International Press Officer

L dot Walton dot 1 at warwick dot ac dot uk

02476 150 868

07824 540 863