I think my car might actually kill me,” time.
This is a problem, because the automakers are barreling towards a future where they’re all going to be offering some form of semi-autonomous driving, and the onus is going to be on the consumer to try them all out and pick the one that makes them feel the safest. That’s a big ask, and frankly, it seems a bit backwards. Shouldn’t the automaker be trying to figure out how they can make you feel the safest?
Honda seems to be on the right track with their Sensing system. It’s a bit more conservative than some of the others out there, which is maybe why it feels more like a good fit for me. The lane centering isn’t as aggressive, the braking is more in line with what I would do, and the hand-off warnings for when the system is about to disengage are clear and loud. It’s not perfect, but it feels more like a digital co-pilot than an overbearing nanny.
And maybe that’s what we need to start thinking about these systems as. Not self-driving cars, but cars that are smart enough to help us out when we need it. Cars that can take over for a bit when we’re tired or distracted, but that aren’t going to make a move that they know you wouldn’t like.
Because when it comes to self-driving cars, one size definitely does not fit all. And until the automakers start realizing that, we’re going to be stuck in this weird limbo where we’re all just trying to find the one that fits us best. Car buyers often face a dilemma when purchasing vehicles equipped with advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS). The issue arises when a driver finds that the system they invested in does not meet their expectations or preferences. This can lead to frustration and disappointment, leaving both buyers and sellers in a difficult position. Manufacturers and software developers strive to create systems that offer confidence and convenience, but individual driver preferences can vary widely.
To address this challenge, I have come up with a solution – Jojo’s ADAS scorecard. This scorecard provides objective and quantifiable information about how different ADAS systems behave, allowing car shoppers to make informed decisions based on their driving preferences. The scorecard includes key metrics such as lane centering bias, lane change distance, follow distance, braking force, hands-off time allowed, and overall “feel” of the system.
Here is a hypothetical example of how the scorecard could look like for popular ADAS systems:
– Ford BlueCruise: Lane centering bias – Centered, Lane change distance – ~3.5 car lengths, Follow distance – Moderate, Braking force – 0.30 G, Hands-off time allowed – Medium, Overall “feel” – Stable
– Honda Sensing: Lane centering bias – Slight left bias, Lane change distance – ~2.5 car lengths, Follow distance – Safe, Braking force – 0.35 G, Hands-off time allowed – Short, Overall “feel” – Balanced
– Mercedes-Benz DRIVE PILOT: Lane centering bias – Centered, Lane change distance – ~3.5 car lengths, Follow distance – Moderate, Braking force – 0.40 G, Hands-off time allowed – Long, Overall “feel” – Confident
– Tesla Autopilot: Lane centering bias – Centered, Lane change distance – ~1.5 car lengths, Follow distance – Close, Braking force – 0.45 G, Hands-off time allowed – Long (varies), Overall “feel” – Aggressive
– Volvo Pilot Assist: Lane centering bias – Slight right bias, Lane change distance – ~3.0 car lengths, Follow distance – Moderate, Braking force – 0.30 G, Hands-off time allowed – Moderate, Overall “feel” – Cautious
It is important to note that these values are fictional and are used for illustrative purposes only. The goal of the ADAS scorecard is to provide a standardized way for car buyers to compare different systems and make informed decisions based on their driving preferences.
In conclusion, the ADAS scorecard could be a valuable tool for car shoppers looking to invest in vehicles with advanced driver assistance systems. By providing clear and objective information about how these systems behave, buyers can ensure that they are getting a system that aligns with their driving style. What values would you like to see on an ADAS scorecard? Share your thoughts in the comments below. To celebrate the upcoming International Women’s Day, let’s take a moment to recognize and honor the countless achievements and contributions of women around the world. From groundbreaking scientists and innovative entrepreneurs to inspiring activists and influential leaders, women have played a crucial role in shaping our society and pushing boundaries in various fields.
One of the most notable areas where women have made significant strides is in the realm of science. Throughout history, women have defied societal norms and pursued their passion for discovery, leading to groundbreaking advancements in various scientific disciplines. From Marie Curie, the first woman to win a Nobel Prize in Physics, to Rosalind Franklin, whose work was instrumental in the discovery of the double helix structure of DNA, women have made invaluable contributions to our understanding of the world around us.
In addition to their achievements in the sciences, women have also been at the forefront of innovation and entrepreneurship. Female entrepreneurs such as Oprah Winfrey, Sara Blakely, and Sheryl Sandberg have not only built successful businesses but have also paved the way for future generations of women to pursue their entrepreneurial dreams. Their resilience, creativity, and determination serve as a reminder of the limitless potential that women possess.
Furthermore, women have been instrumental in driving social change and advocating for equality and justice. Activists like Malala Yousafzai, Gloria Steinem, and Tarana Burke have dedicated their lives to fighting for the rights of women and marginalized communities, sparking important conversations and inspiring movements around the world. Their courage and determination serve as a powerful reminder of the importance of standing up for what is right and just.
As we celebrate International Women’s Day, let us not only acknowledge the achievements of women but also commit to creating a more inclusive and equitable society where all individuals, regardless of gender, have the opportunity to thrive and succeed. By supporting and uplifting women in all aspects of life, we can work towards a more just and equitable world for all.
