This paper describes an experiment undertaken to assess drivers' responses to in-vehicle information systems. This experiment was devised and carried out as part of the EURONETT project, within the framework of the DRIVE programme. EURONETT plays a key role in DRIVE, addressing crucial issues concerning behavioural responses to the introduction of new technologies in road transport. The experiment described in the paper utilised a pc-based simulation and gaming approach to assess user responses to a number of in-vehicle driver information system concepts. This approach was selected in order to simulate the real-time decision environment in which drivers will be trying to use such systems. The experiment concentrated primarily on effects on route choice, and investigated driver responses to advice and guidance from onboard navigation aids, dynamic route guidance systems and the Radio Data System - Traffic Message Channel (RDS-TMC). The paper describes the role of simulation and experimentation in EURONETT, and how this fits into the overall project scope. The experimental design and methodology is then presented, and the results obtained are described. The paper concludes by discussing the significance of the experiment and looks forward towards application of the results.
Samenvatting