One of the new applications of information technology in road traffic consists of the development of automatic vehicle guidance (AVG). Systems that partially or even completely take over control of the driver's task may controbute significantly to general transport policy goals. However, there are still many uncertainties about the future development of these systems. In a recent Delphi study opinions were collected of 50 experts from Europe, the United States and Japan about market introduction of various systems and problems for future developments, together with policy measures to guide these developments. This paper deals with the most important findings of the study. It is concluded that future AVG development is not so self-evident as often assumed. Besides necessary technological progress, there are many uncertainties concerning acceptation and liability. Support from the government is needed on each of these areas.
Abstract