United Kingdom News Brief and Action Alert

Docklands Light Railway Service Shows Promise in Reducing Emissions in the UK

April 17, 2025April 17, 2025

The United Kingdom has been at the forefront of integrating automated systems into its public transportation network. From the early adoption of automatic train operation on the London Underground to recent trials of autonomous buses, the UK has continually explored innovative solutions to enhance its public transit infrastructure. Additionally, it analyses trends over the past decade and projects future developments in this sector.

Types and Numbers of Automated Vehicles

The UK’s journey into automated public transport began with the London Underground’s Victoria Line in 1968, among the first to implement automatic train operation (ATO). Several lines, including the Central, Jubilee, and Northern lines, utilise ATO systems, where trains are operated automatically but still require human oversight for door operations and emergencies. The Docklands Light Railway (DLR), operational since 1987, is a notable example of a fully automated light metro system in London, operating without onboard staff under normal conditions. (House of Commons Library, 2024)

In the realm of bus transportation, the CAVForth project in Scotland represents a significant advancement. Launched in May 2023, it was described as the world’s first full-sized autonomous bus service. The service operated five single-decker buses on a 14-mile route between Ferrytoll Park and Ride in Fife and Edinburgh Park station, with a capacity for about 10,000 passenger journeys per week. However, the service is scheduled to conclude in February 2025 due to lower-than-expected passenger numbers. (House of Commons Library, 2024).

Daily Passenger Usage and Services Provided

The DLR serves approximately 340,000 passengers daily, providing frequent services with intervals ranging from 3 to 5 minutes during peak times. Its design facilitates easy access, with level boarding and step-free access at all stations, catering to a diverse passenger base. (Arup, 2024).

The CAVForth autonomous bus service was designed to integrate with existing public transport networks, linking park-and-ride facilities and major transport hubs. Despite its innovative approach, the service faced challenges in attracting sufficient passenger numbers, leading to its planned discontinuation. (Arup, 2024).

Fuel Types and Environmental Impact

The DLR operates on electric power, contributing to reduced greenhouse gas emissions compared to traditional diesel-powered trains. Its automated operations enhance energy efficiency through optimised acceleration and braking patterns. (House of Commons Library, 2024).

The CAVForth buses were diesel-powered, which may have implications for greenhouse gas emissions. The project focused primarily on advancing autonomous driving technology rather than transitioning to alternative fuels. (House of Commons Library, 2024).

Per-Person Cost of Transport

The cost to passengers for using automated public transport varies. On the DLR, fares are integrated into London’s broader public transport fare system, with prices depending on travel zones and time of day. For instance, a single journey within one zone costs £2.80 with an Oyster card or contactless payment. (The Guardian, 2024).

Specific fare information for the CAVForth autonomous bus service is not readily available. However, as a trial service, it may have operated with subsidised or promotional fares to encourage usage.

Trends and Future Outlook

Over the past decade, the UK has committed to exploring and implementing automated public transport solutions. The DLR has been a longstanding example of successful automation in urban rail transit. While the CAVForth project faced challenges in the bus sector, it provided valuable insights into deploying autonomous buses in real-world conditions. (Arup, 2024).

Looking ahead, the UK continues to invest in research and development of automated transport technologies. Projects like the MultiCAV in Oxfordshire are testing autonomous shuttles to enhance first-mile and last-mile connectivity. These initiatives aim to integrate autonomous vehicles into the public transport ecosystem, improving accessibility and reducing reliance on private cars. (The Guardian, 2024)

Conclusion

The UK’s experience with automated public transport highlights both the transformative potential and the challenges of integrating autonomous technologies into existing transit systems. Automated rail services, such as the Docklands Light Railway (DLR), have demonstrated the feasibility and benefits of automation in public transportation. These systems have improved urban mobility by reducing human error, optimising energy consumption, and ensuring efficient service frequency. Their success underscores the role of automation in enhancing reliability and accessibility, particularly in densely populated areas where mass transit is crucial.

In contrast, autonomous bus services are still in the experimental phase, facing technical, regulatory, and public acceptance challenges. The CAVForth project in Scotland, despite being a groundbreaking initiative, struggled with passenger adoption, highlighting the need for further research into consumer trust, safety perceptions, and operational efficiency. These challenges indicate that while automation has the potential to revolutionise bus transit, it requires significant refinements before widespread deployment can be achieved. Infrastructure upgrades, regulatory adaptations, and integration with existing transport networks will be necessary to facilitate smoother adoption.

One of the most significant factors influencing the success of automated public transport is its environmental impact. While electric automated rail systems contribute to reduced carbon emissions, using diesel-powered autonomous buses raises concerns about sustainability. Future developments should prioritise the transition to electric or hydrogen-powered vehicles to align with the UK’s broader net-zero emissions targets. Investment in green energy solutions, combined with automation, could enhance environmental and operational efficiency, making public transport more sustainable in the long run.

Looking ahead, continued research and investment in automated public transport will be essential in overcoming existing limitations and unlocking new opportunities. Emerging projects, such as the MultiCAV autonomous shuttle trials, indicate that the UK remains committed to exploring automation as a key component of future mobility. Collaboration between government bodies, private sector innovators, and academic institutions will be crucial in addressing technical, regulatory, and social barriers to automation.

Ultimately, while the road to fully autonomous public transport in the UK is still unfolding, the progress made so far provides a strong foundation for future advancements. If properly implemented, automation can enhance transport efficiency, reduce congestion, lower emissions, and improve passengers’ accessibility. By learning from past initiatives and continuously refining technology, the UK has the potential to lead the way in shaping a more intelligent, sustainable, and inclusive public transport network.

 

This Post was submitted by the Climate Scorecard UK Country Manager, Cesar A. A. Da Silva.

 

Learn More References

  • The Guardian. (2024, December 17). Driverless bus service in Scotland to be withdrawn due to lack of interest.
x
x

Climate Scorecard depends on support from people like you.

We are a team of researchers providing information on efforts to reduce global emissions. We help make you better informed and able to advocate for improved climate change efforts. Donations of any amount are welcome.