KPMG has revealed that the development of connected and autonomous cars could be a major boost to the UK.
It is predicted that the development of these technologies could lead to the generation of 320,000 jobs in the UK, and provide a £51bn boost to the UK economy.
Mike Hawes, SMMT Chief Executive, said: "Connected and autonomous cars will transform our roads and the way our society functions for generations to come, dramatically reducing accidents and helping to deliver more than £50 billion to our economy."
"The KPMG report clearly shows the UK automotive industry is leading the way in developing the cars of the future and that it will act as a catalyst for wider economic benefits that will create more than 300,000 jobs by 2030."
"The UK must grasp the opportunities ahead and ensure it is continually at the forefront of pushing through these next breakthrough technologies."
The forecast also predicts that the development of autonomous and connected cars will help to reduce road traffic accidents by more than 25,000 a year by 2030.
Transport Minister Robert Goodwill said: "New technology is fundamental to government’s ambitious vision for our roads."
"That is why we are making huge investments to support innovation, including £19 million for real-world trials of driverless cars and £100 million to research autonomous vehicles, as recently announced in the Budget."
"Connected and autonomous cars will help us move towards a smart, safe, efficient and low-carbon future."
The UK is in a strong position to take advantage of this market, due to not requiring primary legislation for on-road driverless car pilots to take place.
Chancellor George Osborne announced last week that £200 million in government funding will be invested into research, development and demonstration in the UK.
