FMCSA to Conduct Study on Driver Behavior in Autonomous Trucks
The Office of Management and Budget is currently reviewing a proposal put forth by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) regarding a comprehensive human-factors study.
This study aims to explore the impact of secondary task engagement, transfer of control, and training on driver behavior in commercial motor vehicles equipped with Level 2 (L2) advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) and Level 3 (L3) automated driving systems (ADS).
To conduct this study, the FMCSA plans to utilize a driving simulator and recruit 100 commercial vehicle drivers. The participants will undergo a series of questionnaires and simulated driving scenarios. The official notice was published in the Federal Register on June 23, according to the agency’s announcement.
As stated by the FMCSA, ADAS and ADS technologies have significantly reduced the workload for truck drivers while operating their vehicles. In fact, there is even potential for certain applications where truck drivers may no longer be necessary due to advanced systems. However, the FMCSA has identified a potential issue of overreliance on these technologies, particularly with higher levels of ADAS and lower levels of ADS.
The Differences Between L2 and L3 Vehicles
The notice emphasizes that in L2 vehicles, although drivers receive longitudinal and lateral support, they are ultimately responsible for driving at all times. Engaging in non-driving secondary tasks under these conditions can severely impair driving performance, as drivers may fail to promptly recognize and respond to potential hazards.
In the case of L3 vehicles, the distinction between driver and automation roles becomes blurred. L3 represents the lowest level considered to be ADS, with the driver assuming a supervisory position and having full control over the vehicle in limited situations. When an L3 vehicle alerts the driver to take over, it is crucial for the driver to possess situational awareness to resume full control.
Furthermore, the FMCSA states that engaging in non-driving secondary tasks may hinder the driver’s ability to maintain situational awareness of the driving environment.
More Data Required on ADS Vehicles
The notice also mentions that previous research on ADS-equipped commercial motor vehicles has been limited. While there has been extensive use of commercial ADSs in passenger vehicles, the implementation of these technologies in commercial motor vehicles is relatively recent. Therefore, the FMCSA stresses the need for more data and research on ADS-equipped commercial motor vehicles to better understand driver behavior and its policy implications.
Interested parties have until July 24 to submit their comments on this notice.
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