Smart motorways were halted over safety concerns – what’s the future for digital roads?

For many people, the rollout of smart technology across the UK’s road network has been clouded by fears about the removal of traffic-free safety lanes. Traditionally, motorway hard shoulders offered motorists a safe haven into which they could steer stricken vehicles.

But amid growing traffic numbers, the rationale for smart motorways (part of the UK government’s wider

© La Conversation - jeudi 30 avril 2026