Driver Adaptation to In-vehicle Intelligent Transport Systems: Preliminary Findings from the TAC SafeCar Project

The Australian TAC SafeCar project is one of a growing number of on-road trials examining the effects on driver performance and safety in-vehicle intelligent transport systems (ITS). The aim of the project is to evaluate the potential road safety benefits of three in-vehicle ITS: Intelligent Speed Adaptation; Following Distance Warning; and Seat Belt Reminder. These systems, along with a Reverse Collision Warning system and Daytime Running Lights, have been equipped to 15 Ford passenger cars leased by several Government and commercial organisations in Melbourne. A total of 23 drivers will drive a SafeCar for approximately 17,000km. The project aims to examine behavioural adaptation to, and acceptance of, the technologies, separately and in combination, over time. The technical reliability of the systems is also being assessed. This paper presents some preliminary findings on the effects on driving performance of exposure to the Intelligent Speed Adaptation, Following Distance Warning and Seat Belt Reminder systems.