A pioneering study conducted by the Faculty of Human Kinetics at the University of Windsor has unveiled concerning insights into the behaviour of drivers operating semi-autonomous vehicles. The study discovered that, much akin to aviation pilots who initiate autopilot, motorists transition from the role of ‘operators’ to ‘supervisors’ when engaging semi-autonomous systems within their vehicles. Such a change provokes a false sense of security and laxity that could result in serious road safety issues, prompting a call for regulatory bodies to bolster driver training and demand manufacturers to meticulously document accidents involving semi-autonomous vehicles.
Leading the study was Kinesiology professor Francesco Biondi, his predictions of driver complacency in semi-autonomous modes confirmed by the behaviour of 30 volunteers over several months. Tasked with operating a 2022 Tesla Model 3 on Highway 401 from Windsor to Chatham, they alternated between manual and Level 2 semi-autonomous driving systems. Alarmingly, even those inexperienced with a Tesla were found to dangerously compromise focus and attentiveness when relying on the semi-autonomous mode.
Biondi’s research revealed that despite industry reassurances of their safety, semi-autonomous systems have led to drivers displaying behaviours such as excessively long periods of interaction with the vehicle’s touchscreen and even bouts of dozing off, while the vehicle is in operation. Conversely, drivers exhibited far superior levels of alertness and all-round observance when fully manual controls were engaged.
The study, a groundbreaking initiative by Canada’s Ministry of Transportation in Ontario, employed state-of-the-art methods using driving simulators. This innovative technology enabled the tracking of eye movements, pupil dilation, blink rates, heart rates, and hand-eye reaction times of drivers during both modes of operation. Cameras documented driver’s head movements and on-road occurrences, providing comprehensive data never before collected under genuine road conditions in Canadian research.
Highlighting the importance of his findings, Biondi said, “This data, along with other studies, could present a compelling argument to regulators, both locally and internationally, for the need to revamp driver training procedures.”
Biondi further emphasized that the semi-autonomous technology was less efficient in areas such as construction zones, where discerning lane markings becomes challenging. He passionately argued for more vigilance from drivers in such circumstances, pointing out that driver training methodologies have remained largely unchanged for the past two decades, despite rapid advancements in vehicle technologies.
As semi-autonomous vehicles are adopted more widely, Bionidi called for additional research, particularly into driver behaviour during long journeys and under adverse weather conditions. He concluded by underscoring the urgent necessity for better driver training to ensure the safe and effective use of autonomous systems. “Decisive action is of paramount importance in the quest to maintain the safety of our roads,” he said.
