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The recent progress in camera-based technologies has prompted the development of prototype camera-based video systems, intended to replace conventional passenger vehicle mirrors. Given that a significant number of collisions during lane changes stem from drivers being unaware of nearby vehicles, these camera-based systems offer the potential to enhance safety. By affording drivers a broader field of view, they facilitate the detection of potential conflicts. This project was focused on analyzing naturalistic driving data in support of the Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard 111 regulatory endeavors. The goal was to assess the effectiveness and safety compatibility of prototype camera-based side-view systems as potential replacements for traditional side-view mirrors.

This study assessed a driver’s ability to safely manage Super Cruise lane changes, both driver commanded (Lane Change on Demand, LCoD) and system triggered Automatic Lane Changes (ALC). Data was gathered under naturalistic conditions on public roads in the Washington, D.C. area with 12 drivers each of whom were provided with a Super Cruise equipped study vehicle over a 10-day exposure period. Drivers were shown how to operate Super Cruise (e.g., system displays, how to activate and disengage, etc.) and provided opportunities to initiate and experience commanded lane changes (LCoD), including how to override the system. Overall, drivers experienced 698 attempted Super Cruise lane changes, 510 Automatic and 188 commanded LCoD lane changes with drivers experiencing an average of 43 Automatic lane changes and 16 LCoD lane changes.