A Tesla Model 3 has driven itself around a 'Magic Roundabout' in the UK

A ‘self-driving’ Tesla Model 3 has achieved a feat no human has ever been able to manage. It has successfully self-navigated around Swindon’s ironically named ‘Magic Roundabout’.

Furthermore, this ‘self-driving’ Model 3 – equipped with Level 2 SAE autonomy – also managed to drive itself around London without much fuss. An endeavour practically unheard of.

Why is this particular Model 3 going on an impromptu self-driving road trip? Possibly because Tesla’s so-called ‘Robotaxis’ might be planning a UK launch. That’s right: driverless taxis are coming.

It marks the UK debut for the carmaker’s ‘Full Self Driving (Supervised)’ technology. As mentioned, it’s actually akin to Level 2 SAE, so although it’s packed with cameras and is able to drive itself, a human is required to pay attention at all times.

And Tesla’s tech debut comes at an interesting time. The Department for Transport (DfT) has kickstarted a consultation about the development and deployment of self-driving cars ahead of the ‘Automated Vehicles Act’ (AVA) coming into force in 2027.

“Self-driving vehicles are one of the most exciting opportunities to improve transport for so many people, especially those in rural areas or unable to drive,” said the government’s Lilian Greenwood.

"We want to work with passengers and industry to make this new form of transport safe and accessible, as we take our next steps towards adoption. This technology doesn’t just have the potential to improve transport for millions of people, it will help stimulate innovation, create thousands of jobs, and drive investment to put more money in people’s pockets."

Indeed, self-driving cars look to be big bidness: it could generate as much as £42 billion for the UK, while creating some 38,000 jobs.

Let’s see if that self-driving Model 3 can make it around the M25 during rush hour in one piece, then we’ll be impressed