Automation 'dulls drivers' reactions'

12 January 2006

  • Automation in car controls retards driver responses
  • Systems leave drivers with too little to do
  • Car manufacturers refute claims

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New automation systems in cars can increase the risk of crashing, a new study released today claims, but manufacturers refute the findings.

The latest adaptive cruise control, which maintains a set distance from other traffic by altering the car's speed, and systems that can automatically steer for the driver, were put to the test using experienced and learner motorists at Brunel University.

Dr Mark Young, author of the report, says that, when used together, the systems leave drivers 'underloaded' with too little to do, making them less able to respond to emergency situations.

When the adaptive cruise control was made to fail in simulations, half of the 20 learner drivers in the study didn't react at all when cars in front braked, and could not avoid crashing into them.

Dr Young says: 'Advancements in technology need to support the driver, not take over from the driver. If the driver has too little to do, the capacity to respond to unexpected events is dramatically reduced.'

Manufacturers offering the system have refuted the study, saying their own research has shown that systems which work for drivers make them safer motorists.

The updated Honda Accord is currently the only car to offer both systems. Honda has tracked the eye movements of drivers using its automatic steering technology and claims they are more aware of their surrounding environment.

A spokesman for the company said: 'Honda’s ground-breaking ADAS technology – combining Lane Keeping Assist and Adaptive Cruise Control – combats driver fatigue and can improve driver awareness, as well as reducing the burden of motorway (or main road) driving.

Over the last decade, Honda has carried out many hundreds of thousands of miles of testing in all conditions, and is totally confident the ADAS technology will improve safety levels.'

Mercedes has developed new adaptive control systems which can even be used in stop-start traffic, and also says that its research shows that a reduced workload made drivers more relaxed and aware.


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