“Roads to the Future” field operational tests in the Netherlands

Creation date: 17 November 2006

A field operational test organised by the Dutch Ministry of Transport, Public Works and Water Management’s “Roads to the Future” innovation programme has shown that the large-scale use of intelligent vehicles can cut accidents by up to 8%. “Roads to the Future” vehicles were equipped with systems to maintain a safe speed and keep a safe distance (Adaptive Cruise Control - ACC) and prevent unintentional lane departures (Lane Departure Warning - LDW).
 
Improved driver behaviour

The test also showed that driver behaviour improves due to the use of these systems, which results in a smoother traffic flow. Other improvements to driver behaviour included:
 
• Less tailgating
• Less unintentional lane departures
• More equal distribution of speed
• Smoother acceleration
• Better use of indicators

Other results from the field operational test found that:
 
• Driver assistance systems (direct support such as ACC and lane keeping systems) were rated higher by participants than driver warning systems (such as LDW and Headway Monitoring and Warning).
• Traffic flow improves as the number of accidents and the resulting congestion decreases.
• Fuel consumption decreases by 3% as a result of driving with ACC and LDW. 
• Emissions decrease by up to 10%.
• The systems provide increased driver comfort.

“Roads to the Future” also investigated advanced driver assistance systems in “The Assisted Driver” pilot. The focus was on how driving with these systems will change driver behaviour and ultimately affect traffic flows in terms of safety, efficiency and environment. Attention was also paid towards user acceptance and behaviour.
 
The tests are being used by the Ministry and other stakeholders to develop policy regarding advanced driver assistance systems. Results and data will also be used as input for European projects. In addition, “Roads to the Future” is willing to join the eSafety Forum to increase user awareness of these systems.
 
A presentation (in English) with more in-depth information can be downloaded from the Roads the Future website, www.wegennaardetoekomst.nl