The longer version of this study is published by TNO Human Factors Research Institute (TNO-TM), see C 3504 (IRRD 873011). This report describes an experiment which was carried out in the TNO driving simulator. The aim was to compare driving behaviour using Intelligent Cruise Control (ICC) combined with several forms of in-vehicle information. The information sent to the vehicle was concerned with local speed limits and their rationale. The ICCs studied varied in the way the information was used, either in an informative way or in an intervening way. The information presented to drivers was also varied. In addition to a basic configuration, visual, acoustic, or haptic feedback could be given. Subjects were confronted with a number of critical scenarios, when driving with one specific system configuration. The behavioural measurements were related to the following two ICC modes: (1) the regulation of the drivers' own speed; and (2) the regulation of following distance. The combination of ICC with different forms of in-vehicle information appears to show specific effects on driver behaviour. Not all these effects were considered to be favourable.
Abstract