Study Overview:
Building on initial findings, I've broadened my analysis to 18 car models, delivering a clear message: We must act now to restrict access to complex features such as destination entry while driving, a known issue for decades that continues to be unaddressed. Destination entry on the move is a significant risk factor, and a considerable gap exists between recommended Human Factors practices and real-world application in vehicles.
Horoscopes Over Safety?
Apple CarPlay and Google Android Auto have established a positive precedent with Per Se Lockouts, proving the feasibility of restricting certain functions to enhance safety. It’s imperative that car manufacturers adopt similar measures without delay. The presence of sophisticated scientists within car manufacturers suggests knowledge isn't the shortfall—it’s the leadership and prioritisation that need realignment. If resources can be allocated for in-car horoscopes and online stores, developing a robust lockout strategy is certainly within reach.
NHTSA Guidelines:
For decades, NHTSA (US) has researched and provided thorough guidelines. However, their voluntary nature hasn't sufficiently impacted OEM adherence. I strongly recommend a mandatory approach to guarantee compliance and improve driver safety universally. Additionally, the EU should assume a more proactive stance on this matter.
Euro NCAP's Role:
Likewise, Euro NCAP must adopt these guidelines and penalise non-compliance. It’s vital that safety ratings accurately represent the risks associated with using navigation systems during driving, influencing consumer choice and prompting design changes from manufacturers.
Our Duty-of-Care
Driving safety is a shared responsibility. It is our duty-of-care to advocate for decisions prioritising safety, usability, and UX, in that order, even when we face the relentless business pressures.
Acknowledgements:
My heartfelt thanks to Tobii UK for their indispensable eye-tracking technology, instrumental in my on-road studies.
Notes:
The Suzuki S-Cross stood out with its implementation of a Per Se Lockout.
The Audi Q8 e-tron, despite its Per Se Lockout, was excluded due to touchpad entry learning complexities.
The study’s participant, a journalist with deep expertise in automotive interfaces, reflects the consistent patterns from my extensive global research conducted on-road, on-track, and on simulators. Bear in mind, absolute values may differ with a more controlled sample.
Total-Eyes-Off-Road-Time (TEORT) measures the cumulative duration a driver's gaze is diverted away from the road during specific tasks. Additional metrics have been analysed and will be shared in future posts.