Anyone who has had the opportunity to cruise down the highway with adaptive cruise control and lane assist in their vehicle may wonder why, with so much less required of its drivers, is training even necessary? A study conducted on level three automation shows why driver training is essential for a smooth transition to the next level of autonomous vehicles.

Level three automation involves technology that enables the vehicle to completely take over in specific scenarios, with the intention of reducing driver fatigue. The CEO of MasterDrive, Eugene Herbert, says: “The study conducted by the University of Nottingham and RAC Foundation compared two groups of drivers – one that received behavioural training in operating autonomous vehicles and one that only read an owner’s manual.

“The group that received training displayed notably safer driving habits on a driving simulator than the other group. The study says this is because these drivers understood the vehicle’s capabilities, and more importantly, its limitations better. Consequently, there is greater calculation in their decision-making while driving.”

The trained group displayed greater competency in six areas:

1. More likely to notice a hazard when transitioning between automated to manual driving: 90% of the trained drivers noticed a hazard whereas only 24% from the other group saw it
2. Placing more consideration into their next move
3. Preparing more to undertake the next maneuverer
4. Checking mirrors more often when changing lanes and even while the car is driving autonomously
5. Returning attention back to the road after a non-driving task, doing so in 1.8 seconds versus the 11.2 seconds of the owner’s manual group
6. Looking at the road faster (13.7 seconds faster) when instructed to do so by the vehicle

Ultimately, it is not a full transfer of power to the vehicle but changing to a model where responsibility is shared. “Thus, training becomes essential in learning how it is shared and what role one needs to assume when operating an autonomous vehicle. It is vital that drivers understand their changed but complex role that they play in operating autonomous vehicles.

The air industry is a prime example of the role of a driver in an autonomous vehicle. “When flying ‘long-haul’ passengers are aware the pilot is using Autopilot but note the following from one pilot: ‘The auto flying system does not fly the airplane. Pilots fly the plane through the automation.’ There is a human component involved when flying and the same is the case with autonomous vehicles.”

Consequently, effort needs to be made to avoid drivers assuming an underestimated view of their role or see themselves as having a minimal role. “With the current information being shared on autonomous vehicles, it is easy to assume inaccurate or even dangerous views on how to operate these vehicles.

“While South Africa still trails behind in autonomous vehicle adoption, it does give us the advantage of foresight. “Drivers, manufacturers, training bodies and all others involved in the move to vehicle automation, need to do their part in creating awareness of the importance of training to adequately prepare,” says Herbert.