Have you come across one yet: a self-driving car without a driver? Okay, that's a trick question. Because although autonomous vehicles have been allowed on the road since July 1 thanks to a special law, you won't come across one for a while.
The special law we are talking about makes it possible to 'experiment with automated systems in vehicles'. In other words, self-driving cars are allowed on the road, even without a driver. The latter is new. Because since 2015, self-driving cars have been allowed to be tested on public roads in the Netherlands, but on condition that there is a driver behind the wheel. According to the new legislation, this is now also allowed without a driver.
Although the Netherlands, according to KPMG, is the best prepared for the self-driving car worldwide, there are still no driverless cars on Dutch roads. In other words: no one is yet using the experimental legislation, which is reserved exclusively for scientists and companies, who must meet strict requirements.
For example, you need a permit from the Ministry of Infrastructure and Water Management and your car must be inspected by the RDW. So far, no one has applied for such a permit, although there is already a lot of interest. And if you have a permit, that does not mean that the car can drive everywhere. It is only allowed on designated routes. Incidentally, there are already autonomous vehicles driving around in the Netherlands, but that is on (closed) industrial estates and campuses.
Suppose Adrem Car Rental had a self-driving car for rent. Would you want to 'drive' it? Or would you rather get behind the wheel yourself? At Adrem Car Rental you can go for a rent a car in the Echt region.
