The public's understanding of the functionality and limitations of automatic braking in Japan

Abstract

Automated driving systems are increasingly widespread in the automotive industry. To operate automobiles that are assisted by such systems, drivers must correctly understand their functionality and limitations. Hence, focusing on the rapidly spreading technology of automated braking, this study seeks to clarify the general public's understanding of automatic braking systems. A total of 210 Japanese people responded to a questionnaire regarding how automatic brakes are operated, how they work, when they disengage, and so on. The proportion of those who misunderstood the operation of the system is not especially high, but there were a certain percentage of people who had misconceptions; e.g., some believed that automatic braking could detect pedestrians or bicycles. Moreover, respondents were under the impression that drivers cannot readily disengage automatic braking systems. If they mistakenly use the automatic brake, there is a possibility of posing a risk to the road transportation system.