Lessons in Cooperation: A Qualitative Analysis of Driver Sentiments towards Real-Time Advisory Systems from a Driving Simulator User Study

TL;DR

This study qualitatively explores driver sentiments and preferences towards real-time advisory systems in a driving simulator, providing insights to improve future cooperative vehicle-human interactions.

Contribution

It offers a novel qualitative analysis of driver reactions and preferences towards Cooperative RTA systems based on a simulator user study.

Findings

Drivers' trust is influenced by how advice is communicated.

Drivers prefer clear and timely advice for better cooperation.

Recommendations for designing more effective Cooperative RTA systems.

Abstract

Real-time Advisory (RTA) systems, such as navigational and eco-driving assistants, are becoming increasingly ubiquitous in vehicles due to their benefits for users and society. Until autonomous vehicles mature, such advisory systems will continue to expand their ability to cooperate with drivers, enabling safer and more eco-friendly driving practices while improving user experience. However, the interactions between these systems and drivers have not been studied extensively. To this end, we conduct a driving simulator study (N=16) to capture driver reactions to a Cooperative RTA system. Through a case study with a congestion mitigation assistant, we qualitatively analyze the sentiments of drivers towards advisory systems and discuss driver preferences for various aspects of the interaction. We comment on how the advice should be communicated, the effects of the advice on driver trust, and how drivers adapt to the system. We present recommendations to inform the future design of Cooperative RTA systems.