VEHICLE DESIGN FOR PRIMARY SAFETY

There are many initiatives in Europe at present which address the application of advanced technology in vehicles, in particular in cars. They are concerned with the opportunities for introducing advanced electronics and communication systems into cars and the road infrastructure. This paper reviews the opportunities for the application of advanced technology in vehicles, with particular reference to the implications for the driver and the driving task. The paper argues that although the technological advances are laudible, they must be effectively implemented in vehicles, taking account of the requirements of the drivers, the effect on the driving task, and on primary safety in particular. The potential for positively influencing primary safety is examined and the essential human factors work needed to achieve this potential is discussed. For the covering abstract of the conference see IRRD 866319.