Volvo to begin driverless car trials in London next year
Volvo is to begin the "most ambitious" trials of driverless cars in London next year.
The company said it will be the first time that members of the British public will be recruited to get behind the wheel of autonomous driving (AD) cars.
A limited number of semi-AD cars will take to the streets of London early next year, before the scheme is extended in 2018 to up to 100 vehicles.
Adapted versions of Volvo's XC90 sport utility vehicle will be used in the trials.
They will be fitted with additional computer systems, cameras and sensors to enable them to carry out steering, lane changes, acceleration and braking without driver control, Volvo said.
Data from the scheme will be analysed by Volvo to help it develop AD cars.
The firm has not confirmed which parts of the capital will be used for the trial.
Business Secretary Sajid Javid said: "Driverless cars will see our journeys become faster, cleaner and safer.
"The UK is leading the way in developing the technology needed to make this a reality thanks to our world-class research base and these types of trials will become increasingly common."
Chancellor George Osborne announced plans in March's Budget for trials which will allow driverless cars on motorways next year.
Proposals sweeping away regulations that prevent autonomous driving are expected to be brought forward this summer that would allow driverless cars to take to the roads by 2020.
Last updated Wed 27 Apr 2016