The British government has launched a £10 million competition for UK cities to host a driverless cars trial, which will see fully autonomous vehicles take to the streets from January 2015.

Up to three cities will be selected, with the trials running from 18 to 36 months. Each trial will see UK businesses and technology companies working closely together.

Government ministers have also launched a review looking at which current regulations will need to be amended or repealed to allow driverless cars to be tested in the UK, and, therefore help the country remain at the forefront of autonomous innovation.

The review will look at vehicles that still require a qualified driver to be on board, and those that are fully autonomous.

“The excellence of our scientists and engineers has established the UK as pioneers in the development of driverless vehicles through pilot projects," said Business Secretary Vince Cable. "Today’s announcement will see driverless cars take to our streets in less than six months, putting us at the forefront of this transformational technology and opening up new opportunities for our economy and society. Through government’s industrial strategy we are backing the automotive sector as it goes from strength to strength. We are providing the right environment to give businesses the confidence to invest and create high skilled jobs.”

Application for the driverless cars competition will close on 1 October 2014.