Jaguar Land Rover to test over 100 driverless cars in UK

Jaguar Land Rover would test more than 100 driverless cars on UK's roads and motorways by 2020. The company has launched a four-year project to develop and test a wide range of different vehicles.

The initial tests would test technologies that would allow cars to communicate with each other and roadside signs, overhead gantries and traffic lights. It was hoped this would assist the driver and make lane changing and crossing junctions easier and safer.

Tony Harper, head of research at JLR, said, ''Our connected and automated technology could help improve traffic flow, cut congestion and reduce the potential for accidents, the Mirror reported.

 ''We will also improve the driving experience, with drivers able to choose how much support and assistance they need.

''In traffic, for example, the driver could choose autonomy assist during tedious or stressful parts of the journey.

''But even when an enthusiastic driver is fully focused on enjoying the thrill of the open road, the new technology we are creating will still be working in the background to help keep them safe.

''Because the intelligent car will always be alert and is never distracted, it could guide you through road works and prevent accidents.

Meanwhile, Jim Ratcliffe - the billionaire owner of chemical giant INEOS plans to resurrect the Land Rover Defender. The Land Rover Defender, ''can be upgraded to be the world's best and most rugged off roader'', he said.

INEOS yesterday issued a press release saying it ''has commissioned a full feasibility study into resurrecting the Land Rover Defender and held exploratory talks with Jaguar Land Rover''.

Motoring research quoted Ratcliffe as saying, ''I am a great admirer of the Land Rover Defender. Whilst it is early days, our plan has already attracted a huge amount of support from third parties across the globe.''