Driver reactions on ecological feedback via different HMI modalities

Abstract

Nowadays there already exists a large amount of driving-related information displayed in the dashboard and thus additional information concerning ecological driving might enlarge the workload of the driver further. This raises the question whether the presentation of additional ecologic information via the haptic channel is more efficient and comfortable for the driver compared to a visual presentation. Previous studies proved the impact of driver feedback systems on the reduction of fuel consumption. However, most of the studies only dealt with visual displays. Thus in the present study a visual, a haptic, and a visual-haptic interface were designed for an acceleration and a gear shift advice system. Subsequently their impact on the acceleration and the gear shift behavior of the driver as well as their subjective acceptance were compared. Results showed that especially the combination of the visual and haptic modality led to the fastest reaction times and smallest deviations from the optimal acceleration and gear shift behavior. However, concerning the acceptance participants preferred the visual display.