The majority of people living in London think driverless cars will ease congestion on busy roads and improve their quality of life, according to a new survey.

Almost six people in 10 said hi-tech vehicles would cut the stress of driving in the capital.

They cited advantages such as cars parking themselves and knowing when to brake.

Half of young people questioned in the poll, commissioned by the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT), said they would embrace driverless cars.

The survey of 3,641 people was carried out to mark SMMT Connected, a conference in London to discuss connected and autonomous vehicles (CAVs).

It comes less than a week after Uber suspended trials of its driverless car after one crashed in Arizona.

Experts anticipate self-driving vehicles will be commonplace in little more than a decade. The SMMT research is the first UK-based study of the human impact of CAVs, and it concluded they have potential to “significantly reduce social exclusion”.

SMMT Chief executive Mike Hawes said: “The benefits are life-changing, offering greater independence, freedom to socialise, work, earn more and access services.”

The study found 71 per cent of people aged 17 to 24 believe CAVs will improve their lives.

Overall, 56 per cent of consumers felt “positive” about the technology.

And almost half of those with mobility-related disabilities believed CAVs would let them pursue hobbies outside the home or visit restaurants more. Two fifths thought it would help them access health care.

The report also suggested self-driving cars could give up to one million more people access to further education.

The SMMT claims CAVs have the potential to prevent 25,000 accidents, save 2,500 lives, and provide a £51 billion economic opportunity to the UK by 2030.