To Drive or Not to Drive? That is the Question – 93-Year-Old Brad Ashton Hails Nissan’s Self-Driving Tech

Brad’s ride coincided with the release of a Nissan-commissioned survey exploring how technology can help older people combat loneliness and isolation. Conducted by OnePoll with 1,000 participants over 70, the survey found:

• 64% want future technology to support independence in later life.

• 63% don’t want to rely on others for transport.

• 36% of rural residents feel socially isolated without access to a car.

• 21% prefer in-person communication over digital alternatives.

• 20% would willingly try a self-driving car to stay mobile.

Nissan has long been a pioneer in autonomous driving. The company and its partners recently completed the UK’s most rigorous AD research project, evolvAD, building on previous initiatives like HumanDrive and ServCity. The goal is to bring autonomous mobility closer to reality for a safer, cleaner, and more inclusive future.
As the technical lead for evolvAD, Nissan has facilitated over 16,000 miles of autonomous driving on UK roads without accidents. Progress is also being made in Japan, where a test vehicle recently navigated a public road without a driver.

David Moss, Senior Vice President of Research & Development for Nissan’s AMIEO region, said: “This technology can make driving safer, cleaner, and more accessible for those who need it most. Our talented UK team at Nissan Technical Centre Europe in Cranfield will continue to develop it, and we’re excited about the future of AD mobility.”
Brad’s positive experience showcases how autonomous vehicles could revolutionize mobility for older adults, ensuring they stay connected and independent well into the future.