Intelligent Speed Adaptation (ISA) in Ghent, Belgium : the first European trial with politicians, academics and car-constructors as role models in ISA-driving.

In October 2002, the first ISA-trial in Belgium started in Ghent, in association with the Belgium Institute for Road Safety, the City of Ghent, an insurance company, the provincial administration, Volvo-cars Ghent and the regional public transport company. 34 cars and 3 buses were equipped with the 'active accelerator pedal': 20 cars are voluntary users of the ISA-system, while 14 other vehicles and 3 buses are used by companies and public administrations. The main objectives of the trial in Ghent were: to evaluate the effects of ISA on speed-change, traffic safety, drivers' attitude and behaviour, and drivers' acceptance; to create a further bearing surface of ISA; and to create an acceptance of 'ISA as a potential for road-safety' by public opinion and the decision makers. 6 of the test-drivers could be assumed as role-models in ISA-driving: the mayor and two aldermen of the city of Ghent, rector and vice-rector of the Ghent University, and the general manager of Volvo-cars Ghent. Because of their higher function as public figures, they could have a certain influence on the opinion-makers and the general public, which could also lead to a further carrying capacity and acceptance of ISA by the general public. A year later the trial period has ended, but the city of Ghent has attempted to go further with ISA. For the covering abstract see ITRD E128680.