From October 1999 until October 2000, the Transport Research Centre (AVV) of the Dutch Ministry of Transport conducted a trial involving Intelligent Speed Adaptation (ISA) for 20 passenger cars and one passenger bus. The trial took place in an urban area of the city of Tilburg, and three speed limits were used: 30, 50 and 80 km/h. When the vehicle exceeds the maximum speed limit for that area, the speed of the vehicle is adjusted automatically (the fuel inlet is automatically restricted). This `enforced' speed restriction makes the Dutch trial substantially different from trials undertaken elsewhere (for example in Sweden). The project fits within the Dutch long-term road safety policy and within the Sustainable Safety Programme. The primary goal of this practical study was to examine whether ISA is a realistic option as an instrument for speed control, both from a technical-operational and from a social point of view. A major evaluation objective was to measure public acceptance of this type of ISA application, both with test drivers and with the general public. This summary provides information about the research design, the acceptance of ISA, as well as changes in actual driving behaviour. Results show that the response was high and predominantly positive, as was the appreciation for driving test cars. Relatively few drivers hold arguments that should prevent authorities from implementing this type of ISA. As far as driving behaviour is concerned: ISA results in lower average speeds. The overall conclusion is that ISA, as tested here, holds a high potential as a new intelligent way to help solve speeding problems. (Author/publisher) For the summary see C 23386 fo (ITRD E206634).
Abstract