A new study from Inrix reveals that less than one in five road users in Britain would be willing to place their trust in a driverless vehicle built by a technology company.

A range of big technology firms have already entered this market. Google has tested self-driving software, while reports have suggested Apple may be interested in venturing into the automotive sector, although these rumors have persisted for years.

Inrix said only 18% of drivers in the UK believe technology firms can be trusted to build self-driving vehicles and securely deal with connected data, rather alarming when said companies are looking to launch these into the mainstream to consumers in the next five years.

There is better news for the more established car-manufacturers though, with more than a quarter (27%) of motorists willing to trust them with their personal data.

Commenting on the findings, Inrix chief economist Dr Graham Cookson said the technology giants based in Silicon Valley quickly need to address people’s concerns over privacy and security.

He added: “Consumers are more aware than ever of keeping their data safe, and the fact that they trust traditional car-makers over tech giants with their in-car data sends a powerful message to consumers, what this may mean for your average consumer car insurance policy though is uncertain

“While UK drivers are more sceptical of today’s tech titans, traditional car-makers still need to do more to show consumers the benefits of their connected and, in the future, autonomous vehicles to secure a concrete foothold in this highly lucrative market.”

The expert concluded that the stakes at play have never been higher when it comes to connected and autonomous vehicles.

The survey shows that 53% of Britons believe self-driving vehicles will be made widely available within the coming 10 years. However, they then went on to say that only 17%  would be willing to purchase one at present.

As part of a Government-backed project, the UK’s motorways are due to welcome driverless cars for the first time within the next three years.

A consortium called ‘Driven’ is behind this scheme, with driverless cars set to travel between London and Oxford by 2019. Only time will tell as to how successful the outcome will be.