Driverless cars 'can't cope with kangaroo bounce'

A British MP says a kangaroo's bounce confuses driverless cars.

Driverless cars have a problem detecting and avoiding bouncing kangaroos, a British MP says.

Conservative MP James Cartlidge said that the marsupials' bouncing had thrown off Volvo's large animal detection systems, as he called on car manufacturers to consider all road users when designing the devices.

During a Westminster Hall debate on the safety of riders and horses on rural roads, Cartlidge said driverless cars would bring their own issues.

"I don't know if people are aware of Volvo - they have an issue with kangaroos."

The South Suffolk MP said Volvo recently reported their driverless cars had initially been tested to detect and avoid moose in Sweden but had struggled with kangaroos.

"I think it's because they bounce, rather than approach steadily - I don't know, I'm not an expert."

Cartlidge said he hoped the UK would lead the world in the development of driverless cars but large animal detection systems on such vehicles should be able to handle any user met on the road.

- PA, AAP