Perceptions of Two Unique Lane Centering Systems: An FOT Interview Analysis

The goal of this interview analysis was to explore and document the perceptions of two unique lane centering systems (S90’s Pilot Assist and CT6’s Super Cruise). Both systems offer a similar type of functionality (adaptive cruise control and lane centering), but have significantly different design philosophies and HMI (Human-Machine Interface) implementations. Twenty-four drivers drove one of the two vehicle models for a month as part of a field operational test (FOT) study. Upon vehicle return, drivers took part in a 60-minute semi-structured interview covering their perceptions of the vehicle’s various advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS). Transcripts of the interviews were coded by two researchers, who tagged each statement with relevant system and perception code labels. For analysis, the perception codes were grouped into larger thematic bins of safety, comfort, driver attention, and system performance. Perceptions of adaptive cruise control (ACC) were similar across vehicles. Almost all participants mentioned benefits of comfort and safety associated with ACC use. Participants cited different benefits between the two vehicle’s implementations of lane centering. A majority of participants (75%) described comfort benefits associated with Super Cruise, while less than half (41%) cited comfort benefits associated with Pilot Assist. Only a few participants (25%) mentioned safety benefits associated with Super Cruise. Half (50%) of the participants mentioned safety benefits associated with Pilot Assist. Almost all participants cited fears of potential misuse of the system in which drivers might pay less attention to the driving task. Results suggest that drivers’ comprehension and expectation of these systems’ behavior are strongly influenced by their design philosophies, specifically in terms of the difference in hands-on versus hands-off-wheel implementation. The perceived role of the driver – as either a fallback driver or as an assisted driver - may be influenced by the design implementation.