We are pleased to share the findings of our recently published report How Will Drivers and Passengers Interact in Future Automated Vehicles?

Increasingly automated vehicles are described as having the potential to reduce road casualties.

However, much of this has been based on theory and computer predictions.

Over the last few years, researchers have been busy investigating the potential for this modern technology and the realities of human interaction with it.

Taking control

A new research report has been published by the RAC Foundation.

It is the third of a three part project looking at the way automated transport systems could work in practice.

This final piece looks at how capable drivers are at retaking control of a vehicle from the automated driver function.

This could be in an emergency situation, and system failure or perhaps when the driver wishes to take back control.

Sharing the load

Funded by the RAC Foundation and conducted by the University of Nottingham, this study reveals that passengers can enhance a driver’s focus and assist in deciding when to take manual control.

However, they also introduce potential distractions during automated driving phases.

As is a ongoing problem to day in all vehicles, occupants engaging in conversations, using smart devices or watching films, for example can cause issues.

Despite these distractions, passengers can help keep drivers alert, preventing them from falling asleep and providing valuable navigational support.

Behind the wheel

The research, involving 17 motorists navigating a driving simulator representing a Level 3 automated vehicle, also highlighted challenges in transitioning from automated to manual control.

Drivers exhibited erratic braking, accelerating, and lane wavering in the first ten seconds of resuming control, suggesting a need for further investigation into these transition periods.

This study, led by Dr Catherine Harvey, Dr David Large and Professor Gary Burnett, aims to inform future research on conditional automation and contribute to the safety of self-driving vehicles.

To see the full report, click here.