The 411: Advanced Driver Assistance Systems and Fully Self Driving Cars
Before starting at AAA, I wasn't fully aware of how advanced driver assistance systems (also known as ADAS) work. I felt like two drivers would be driving the car simultaneously – one human, one not – both having complete control, almost like a transformer. Seeing commercials for vehicles that parallel park on their own and automatically brake as the family backs into the road made me ask some questions:??
Are these systems safe??
Do I need to pay attention when they’re on??
To many of us, this technology can be slightly confusing or even nerve-racking – luckily AAA surveys consumers every year to gauge their understanding and feelings about self-driving vehicles and other semi-automated technology.?
This year’s results are in! AAA says...?
Most (68%) drivers would be afraid to ride in a self-driving vehicle, a 13% increase over last year. Millennials, however, are a little less apprehensive with 60% saying they are fearful.??
What’s interesting is that 12% of Millennials think there are cars available to buy that drive themselves while they sleep? … more than any other generation.?
Umm, hold up. There seems to be slight confusion regarding what these technologies do, what different levels of automation are available to the public, and how to safely use these technologies. And as a Millennial myself, I totally get it. Increased media coverage surrounding crashes that involve vehicles that seem like they drive themselves doesn’t make me feel warm and fuzzy. But if I learned anything while working at AAA, it’s that there is a chance to better educate and inform the public on this topic.??
AAA is here to give you the 411 on advanced driver assistance systems and the levels of vehicle automation. Let’s break it down into simple terms.??
Automation's Origin Story
Some advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) have been available for nearly 30 years; however, they have only become more common in the last several years. You’ve probably heard of automatic emergency braking and lane keeping assistance – both are considered ADAS. Since these features now come standard on many new vehicles, it is important to have a solid understanding of their functionality.?
Plus - with the current variety of marketing names given to these systems, it can be difficult to discern what features a vehicle has and how they actually work. AAA found that 22% of Americans expect driver support systems with names like Autopilot, ProPILOT, or Pilot Assist to drive the car itself. This is not true and could be a deadly mistake.???
Levels of vehicle automation, defined by SAE International??
These range from no driver automation (level 0) to full driver automation (level 5). Still unclear? Let’s break it down further –??
领英推荐
What are Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS)???
Advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) offer a range of features designed to improve the safety of driving. Just like the name says – these features are intended to assist drivers. But they are not able to fully take over the driving task as some marketing or videos on the internet may lead you to believe.??
Some Examples of ADAS??
To learn more, check out AAA’s, Clearing the Confusion, which provides naming and descriptions of ADAS in a consistent, easy-to-understand manner.??
Active driving assistance (ADA) is also considered ADAS, however, it differs in its functionality from other systems. ADA combines braking, accelerating, and steering through a combined use of adaptive cruise control and lane centering assistance. This technology actively assists the driver versus other ADAS that only turns on when needed. ADA is also the only ADAS classified as Level 2 automation.??
What is a fully self-driving vehicle???
A vehicle capable of operating without human involvement. A human driver is not required to control the vehicle at any time, nor required to be present in the vehicle while moving. These vehicles are not available for purchase by consumers and are classified as Level 4 and 5 automations as defined by?SAE International.?
AAA Advice & Resources?
It’s extremely important to have a clear understanding of how these systems work before using them in your regular driving. If you do not understand the technology, especially its limitations, you might use it in situations it was not designed for, possibly compromising safety. AAA recommends requesting a demonstration from the dealership and thoroughly reading the vehicle owner’s manual and other information provided online by the automaker.????
Greg Brannon has 30+ years in the automotive space with AAA. His team creates strategy, focus, and activities for AAA's Automotive Engineering initiatives including research and testing of automotive technologies (autonomous vehicles, advanced driver assistance technologies, advanced headlights, etc.), fuels (detergents, octane levels, fuel economy, electric vehicles, etc.) and issues impacting vehicle ownership (spare tires, automotive batteries, oil, tires, etc.).?
Brannon’s team takes this research and develops resources and reports helpful to the public.???
Message to Driver - “Self-driving vehicles are still years away from being available for purchase. However, as automakers begin testing them on public roads, you may interact with various levels of new vehicle technology in some areas. Find opportunities to learn about when and how self-driving vehicles will be a part of daily life - new features on modern cars only mean drivers must remain continuously engaged while driving!”??
Message To Automakers - “Automakers and regulators should agree on common naming for advanced vehicle technology. Having a clear set of definitions for these systems will help consumers better understand what they are shopping for. Specific terms could clearly define the functions of a given system and highlight how they assist a driver. It should also be clear that current vehicle technology is not capable of taking over the driving task entirely.”??
This newsletter was written by Brittany Moye. If you like to learn more from AAA, follow us on AAA LinkedIn. There’s something for everyone: educational tips, industry research, traffic safety – and much more!?