UK Government launches self-driving vehicle initiative
The UK Climate Change and Industry Minister Claire Perry has announced the launch of MERIDIAN, new government-backed and industry-led brand for the development of Connected and Autonomous Vehicle (CAV) technology. Jointly funded by the government and industry, MERIDIAN will create a “cluster of excellence” for testing driverless vehicles along the M40 corridor between Coventry and London.
In a statement issued today (7 September), Perry said: “At the heart of our Industrial Strategy is a commitment to delivering world class science, research and innovation. The MERIDIAN co-ordination hub embodies this ambition, creating a globally recognisable brand that will bring the automotive sector, academia and Government together behind a common set of strategic goals.”
The government has also today published its Centre for Connected Autonomous Vehicles (CCAV) Global Market Value report which predicts the global market for CAV technology could be worth £907bn in 2035.
