How we operate
Building the operational foundations for autonomous transport
At Autonomous Mobility UK, we believe successful autonomous passenger services require much more than advanced vehicle technology.
We are developing the operational infrastructure, management systems and safety procedures needed to support reliable, professionally managed autonomous transport networks across the United Kingdom.
Operational preparation
Our operational preparation includes three core frameworks.
Defines the proposed responsibilities of AMUK, vehicle manufacturers, autonomous driving technology providers, passenger booking platforms and operational partners.
This includes operational oversight, vehicle management, passenger support, charging infrastructure, maintenance responsibilities and coordination between service providers.
Establishes our approach to risk management, incident response, passenger welfare, staff competence, operational monitoring, vehicle maintenance and emergency coordination.
The framework is designed to support consistent operating standards as services are developed across multiple UK regions.
Identifies the records, procedures, approvals and operational evidence required to support regulatory applications, operational assurance and ongoing compliance.
It provides a structured approach to documenting responsibilities and demonstrating operational preparedness.
National framework
Our objective is to establish a scalable national operating framework that can be adapted to individual local authority requirements, vehicle technologies and regional transport networks.
These preparations are being developed alongside our engagement with local authorities, government bodies, vehicle manufacturers and infrastructure partners.
Our commitment
To develop autonomous passenger services with safety, accountability, accessibility and operational reliability at the centre of every deployment.
Important regulatory clarification
AMUK's operational frameworks are working documents under development. They do not constitute regulatory approval, certification or permission to operate autonomous passenger services. Deployment remains subject to applicable regulatory authorisations, vehicle approvals and local permissions.
A two-page public summary of our operational approach and safety and compliance preparation (PDF).
Local authorities, investors and prospective delivery partners may request further information about our operational and safety frameworks.
Operational readiness
The areas AMUK is developing frameworks for, in collaboration with technology providers, insurers and the relevant authorities.
Clear allocation of duties between automated driving system providers, service operators, fleet service providers and infrastructure operators.
A structured safety management system supported by risk registers and regular review.
Documented inspection regimes and risk-based maintenance procedures for every vehicle.
Consistent reporting, investigation and escalation protocols.
Defined procedures for working with police, ambulance and fire services.
Protecting vehicles, systems and passenger data in line with UK requirements.
Role-specific training and competency assessment for operational teams.
Appropriate insurance arrangements for fleets, facilities and services.
Securing the vehicle, operator and service authorisations required before operation.
Formal operational readiness reviews before any service is introduced.
AMUK is developing these processes. It does not claim any safety certification, and final responsibilities will depend on applicable regulation and commercial agreements with technology providers, operators and other partners.
Passenger care
Monitoring of vehicle status and performance throughout operating hours.
Trained staff able to support vehicles and passengers when needed.
A clear route to help at every stage of the journey.
Inclusive booking and journeys, with policies to protect vulnerable passengers.
Road regulation
Autonomous road passenger services in Great Britain are governed by the Automated Vehicles Act and the emerging Automated Passenger Services regime, which set out how self-driving vehicles and operators are authorised to carry passengers. This is separate from aviation regulation, which falls under the Civil Aviation Authority.
Every deployment is subject to the required approvals, permits and local consent.
We welcome conversations with local authorities, regulators, insurers and safety partners on operating autonomous services responsibly in the UK.