20/10/2016
The concept of driverless vehicles, once confined to the realm of science fiction, is rapidly becoming a tangible reality across the globe. From robotaxis ferrying passengers in bustling Californian cities to autonomous delivery bots navigating office complexes, the future of transport is evolving at an astonishing pace. Yet, here in New Zealand, the landscape for autonomous vehicles (AVs) remains largely uncharted territory for the everyday Kiwi. While a diminutive 50cm-high 'Cloud Vehicle', a product of Unitec's new Internet of Things Impact Lab equipped with One NZ's latest 5G technology, signifies a step forward in local innovation, it also highlights the stark contrast between New Zealand's cautious approach and the accelerating progress seen overseas. The crucial question many are asking is: can these advanced machines truly operate on our public roads, and if not, why is New Zealand seemingly stuck in first gear?
What Exactly Are Autonomous Vehicles? Unpacking the SAE Levels
To understand the debate surrounding driverless cars, it’s essential to grasp what an autonomous vehicle truly is. The Society of Automotive Engineers (SAE) has established a widely accepted five-level scale, ranging from zero (no automation) to five (full automation), to classify the capabilities of these vehicles. On this scale, the self-driving cars we see making headlines overseas, such as Waymo cabs in San Francisco or DeepRoute.ai counterparts in Shenzhen, China, are typically classified at Level Four. This signifies a high degree of automation where the vehicle can perform all driving tasks under specific conditions, largely without human intervention – though they might still be hampered by extreme situations like severe weather.
Truly automated Level Five vehicles, capable of operating reliably anywhere and in any condition, are still considered decades away. However, many countries are already embracing Level Three automation, where the car manages both speed and steering control, allowing the driver to disengage from some tasks under certain conditions. For instance, in a matter of months, Mercedes cars equipped with 'Drive Pilot' will permit occupants to watch movies while being driven along Germany's autobahns at speeds of up to 95km/h. In stark contrast, vehicles on New Zealand's roads currently offer nothing smarter than Level Two automation. This includes features like lane-keep assist, automatic braking, or collision mitigation systems that provide alerts if you veer too close to the centre line – systems that assist the driver rather than replace them.
The Global Race: Where New Zealand Stands
New Zealand has often prided itself on being a testbed for new technologies, from the early adoption of Eftpos in the 1980s to being a proving ground for innovations like Facebook Marketplace and drone-delivered Domino’s pizza. Yet, when it comes to autonomous vehicles, our stance has been decidedly "wait-and-see." This cautious approach stands in stark contrast to the rapid advancements and legislative changes observed in other nations. For example, the MIT spin-off company NuTonomy began piloting its robotaxi service in Singapore as early as 2016, demonstrating that the reality of driverless transport has been with us for most of a decade.
In the United States, cities like Los Angeles, Phoenix, and San Francisco have become familiar with GPS-guided delivery robots and even Waymo robotaxis, where passengers can literally observe the steering wheel turning as if by an unseen hand. Meanwhile, across the Tasman, Australia proposed new legislation this year to accommodate AVs, and the United Kingdom recently passed laws that will make privately-owned autonomous vehicles legal from 2026. These developments highlight a growing international momentum to integrate AVs into public transport networks and private ownership. New Zealand's Ministry of Transport states it is keeping a "close watch" on these overseas developments and the laws governing them, but critics argue this passive observation is insufficient and that the country risks being left behind in a crucial technological revolution.
One of the primary impediments to the widespread adoption of autonomous vehicles on New Zealand's public roads lies in its existing transport laws. These regulations were broadly conceived with the inherent assumption of a human driver at the controls, operating a vehicle equipped with conventional design features such as a steering wheel. This fundamental premise creates a significant "regulatory challenge" when confronted with vehicles like automated shuttles or remotely-piloted e-scooters, which either lack a human operator or traditional controls.
To date, there has been only one instance of a company receiving approval to operate an AV on any kind of public road in New Zealand, beyond brief public demonstrations. This singular exemption is remarkably limited, allowing Auckland-based Ohmio to run its low-speed automated shuttles solely within a single cul-de-sac in industrial Pakuranga. Ohmio's eye-catching AVs, promoted as a "last-mile" solution designed to transport up to 20 passengers to public transport hubs, have otherwise been restricted to operating on closed roads within New Zealand. This includes their trial at Paerata Rise, a 'Smart Village' aiming to provide cutting-edge lifestyle options to its residents, where Ohmio's self-driving shuttle system, developed in partnership with Think Robotics and Dense Air, operates within a private network to improve access to facilities like park and ride spaces and the Paerata train station. While innovative, these are not examples of AVs freely navigating the national public road network.
Why the Slow Lane? Unpacking New Zealand's Unique Challenges
Several factors contribute to New Zealand's cautious pace in embracing autonomous vehicle technology. One significant issue is the diverse mix of new and used cars populating our roads, sourced from various international markets, each with differing technology standards. As Simon Douglas, Chief Policy and Advocacy Adviser for the Automobile Association (AA), points out, ensuring how these disparate vehicles communicate with each other, our transport systems, and existing infrastructure presents a considerable hurdle. The current state of our road infrastructure also poses challenges; drivers of cars equipped with lane-departure technology have already experienced instances where their vehicles swerve towards old "ghost markings" on roads. For self-driving cars, the infrastructure needs to be consistently up to standard to ensure safe and reliable operation.
Another complex question for policymakers is whether the widespread introduction of AVs might exacerbate congestion in New Zealand's already car-crammed cities. Dr. Mahmood Hikmet, Ohmio’s head of research and development, explains that the impact on congestion largely depends on how the technology is ultimately utilised. While certain types of AVs could indeed place more pressure on the transport network, others, like Ohmio’s shuttles designed for "last-mile" transport, could potentially contribute to making public transport options such as bikes, trains, and buses more sustainable and accessible.
Beyond the technical and infrastructural challenges, public acceptance also plays a critical role. Research conducted by Moayad Shammut and his team at Massey University indicates that Kiwis generally still prefer cars with lower levels of automation. This preference stems partly from general attitudes toward new technology, but also from a palpable unease about sharing roads with slow-moving AVs, or concerns over how an autonomous system might navigate complex, unpredictable situations like busy, uncontrolled intersections. Shammut suggests that beyond being confined to geo-fenced zones, AVs would require "remarkable programming" to safely negotiate New Zealand's unique and often unpredictable driving behaviour. His team also identified another, perhaps more obvious, factor: many Kiwis simply enjoy the act of driving. As one study participant eloquently put it, "I love to drive, the power is in my hands. This will all be lost when robots have all control." However, perceptions can change with first-hand experience, as Hikmet has observed with users of Ohmio’s shuttles, suggesting that exposure could foster greater acceptance.
The Case for a Driverless Future: Safety and Economic Imperatives
Despite the current hurdles, proponents argue that New Zealand's slowness to embrace autonomous vehicle technology could result in significant economic and even safety repercussions. Lawyer and researcher Michael Cameron, who published a major study for the Law Foundation advocating for a regulatory overhaul back in 2018, expresses deep concerns that successive governments have failed to grasp the urgency of the situation. He contends that New Zealand's transport laws effectively became outdated as early as 2017, when Audi announced its new A8 with a highway mode allowing the driver to disengage, and Waymo began operating driverless vehicles on public roads overseas. Cameron warns that our vague laws might deter manufacturers from deploying advanced AV capabilities here, or alternatively, manufacturers might push updates anyway, leaving New Zealand law scrambling to catch up.
The potential benefits of AVs are compelling. Autonomous vehicles have the capacity to significantly reduce human error, which is a major contributing factor to road accidents and fatalities. This could lead to a substantial decrease in road deaths, a critical public safety goal. Furthermore, while the introduction of AVs might lead to some job displacement in traditional driving roles, "first mover" jurisdictions – those countries that proactively adopt and integrate the technology – are best placed to reap the substantial economic benefits. These benefits could include increased efficiency in logistics, new service industries, and a competitive advantage in the global technological landscape. The contrast with countries like the UK, which has already legislated for privately-owned AVs from 2026, reinforces Cameron's argument that "slow and steady" adopters may find themselves with a permanent structural disadvantage.
Paving the Way: Recommendations for New Zealand's Driverless Future
Recognising the growing global trend, both the Ministry of Transport and NZTA now operate programmes specifically dedicated to autonomous vehicles. However, the path for companies like Ohmio to navigate what remains a legislative grey area has been fraught with years of challenges. Michael Cameron's recommendations for legislative reform are clear. He suggests that the governing Land Transport Act could be amended to explicitly clarify that driverless vehicles are legal on New Zealand roads, provided they adhere to the same rules as other vehicles. Crucially, such amendments would also need to fairly attribute criminal liability for any incidents involving AVs, a complex legal question that requires clear statutory guidance.
Furthermore, Cameron argues that the Ministry could adopt a policy mandating manufacturers to publish comprehensive safety assessments before introducing any autonomous vehicles into the New Zealand market. This proactive approach would help ensure that any AVs deployed meet rigorous safety standards, building public trust and mitigating risks. By taking these steps, New Zealand could move from a reactive "wait-and-see" stance to a more proactive and enabling regulatory environment, fostering innovation while prioritising safety. The lessons from countries like the UK and Australia, which are actively shaping their legislative frameworks to accommodate AVs, provide a blueprint for New Zealand to follow, ensuring it doesn't fall further behind in this critical area of future transport.
New Zealand's Pioneering Steps (Albeit Limited)
Despite the legislative inertia, New Zealand has seen some innovative, albeit limited, ventures into autonomous technology. The 'Cloud Vehicle', a 50cm-high autonomous unit developed by Unitec's Internet of Things Impact Lab and equipped with One NZ's 5G technology, represents a tangible output of local research and development. While its current application is not for widespread public transport, it demonstrates the country's capacity for technological innovation in the AV space.
Ohmio, a key player in New Zealand's AV landscape, has also made significant strides with its LIFT shuttle. These vehicles, promoted as a "last-mile transport solution," have been showcased in demonstrations, such as in Queenstown, and are designed to deliver passengers to public transport hubs. However, their operation on public roads remains severely restricted, limited primarily to closed environments or the highly specific exemption in Pakuranga. The partnership with Paerata Rise to provide on-demand transport via a smartphone app within a private network further exemplifies how AVs are being trialled in controlled, community-specific settings rather than integrated into the broader public road network. These initiatives, while valuable for testing and development, underscore the current limitations and the significant legislative and infrastructural changes required for AVs to become a common sight on New Zealand's public roads.
Comparative Overview: Autonomous Vehicle Readiness
| Feature | New Zealand | United States (e.g., California) | United Kingdom |
|---|---|---|---|
| Highest AV Level on Public Roads | Level 2 (Driver-assist). Limited Level 4/5 trials in specific, highly restricted zones (e.g., cul-de-sacs, private networks). | Level 4 (Robotaxis common in major cities like San Francisco, Phoenix, Los Angeles). | Level 3 (Legislation for activation in new Mercedes from 2026). Level 4/5 trials ongoing, new laws for private AVs from 2026. |
| Legal Framework for AVs | Broadly assumes human driver. "Regulatory challenge" for AVs. Review underway, but slow. | Specific AV legislation and permitting frameworks developing at state and federal levels. | New laws passed, aiming to establish clear liability and safety frameworks for AVs from 2026. |
| Public Acceptance | Mixed; preference for active driving, unease with AVs on complex roads. | Growing in trial areas, with increasing familiarity through robotaxi services. | Varying, but increasing with exposure to trials and public discussions. |
| Infrastructure Readiness | Requires consistent upgrades; "ghost markings" an issue for current driver-assist systems. | Ongoing investment in smart infrastructure and mapping for AV operations. | Focus on digital mapping and V2I (vehicle-to-infrastructure) communication. |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Autonomous Vehicles in New Zealand
Q: What are the main benefits of autonomous vehicles?
A: AVs hold the potential to significantly reduce road accidents by eliminating human error, improve traffic flow and reduce congestion (depending on implementation), offer greater mobility for those unable to drive, and create economic efficiencies in transport and logistics. They could also lead to a decrease in road deaths.
Q: Will autonomous vehicles take away jobs from human drivers?
A: The introduction of AVs is likely to impact jobs in sectors heavily reliant on human drivers, such as taxi services, trucking, and delivery. However, it is also expected to create new jobs in areas like AV manufacturing, maintenance, software development, and infrastructure management. The overall long-term impact on employment is a subject of ongoing debate and research.
Q: How safe are autonomous vehicles?
A: The safety of AVs is paramount. While still in development, the goal is for AVs to be significantly safer than human-driven cars due to their consistent adherence to rules, faster reaction times, and lack of distractions. However, like any complex technology, they are not immune to failures or unexpected scenarios, and robust testing and regulatory oversight are crucial.
Q: When can I expect to buy a fully driverless car in New Zealand?
A: Currently, only Level 2 automation features are common in cars sold in New Zealand. While some countries are progressing with Level 3 and 4 vehicles, the widespread availability of fully driverless (Level 5) cars for private ownership on New Zealand's public roads is likely still many years, if not decades, away. Significant legislative and infrastructural changes are needed first.
Q: What is Level 5 automation?
A: Level 5 automation, according to the SAE scale, represents full driving automation. This means the vehicle can perform all driving tasks under all conditions, without any human intervention. It can operate anywhere a human driver can, in all weather conditions, and does not require a steering wheel or pedals. This is the ultimate goal of autonomous technology.
Conclusion: The Road Ahead for Autonomous Transport in Aotearoa
New Zealand finds itself at a critical juncture regarding the future of autonomous vehicles. While local innovation, such as the 'Cloud Vehicle' and Ohmio's pioneering shuttles, demonstrates the nation's capacity for technological advancement, the overarching regulatory framework remains firmly rooted in an era that predates true self-driving capabilities. The contrast with countries actively embracing and legislating for AVs, like the UK and Australia, is stark. Experts like Michael Cameron warn of potential economic and safety disadvantages if New Zealand continues its "wait-and-see" approach. The challenges are multifaceted, encompassing outdated laws, varied vehicle fleets, infrastructure readiness, and public sentiment. Yet, the potential benefits – from enhanced road safety through the elimination of human error to improved transport efficiency and economic growth – are too significant to ignore. For autonomous vehicles to truly navigate the public roads of New Zealand, a proactive and urgent overhaul of existing legislation, coupled with strategic infrastructure investment and robust public engagement, is not just desirable but imperative. The journey towards a driverless future in Aotearoa has begun, but it requires a decisive shift from the slow lane to a clear, well-defined path forward.
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