Confidence in Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) is growing among UK motorists, according to a recent survey by Venson Automotive Solutions.
With automated vehicles (AVs) potentially set to debut on UK roads next year, more drivers are showing a willingness to adopt ADAS features, particularly those designed to improve safety.
However, Venson has also highlighted the need for further fleet training to address gaps in driver understanding of some critical systems.
The survey, which gathered responses from 300 motorists, revealed that 72% of drivers would now use automatic emergency braking (AEB) if available, compared to 45% two years ago.
What’s more, trust in collision warning systems (CWS) has risen by 24% over the same period, while 20% more drivers recognise the benefits of lane keep assist (LKA).
The findings also indicate a shift in driver priorities, with efficiency overtaking performance as a key consideration. 69% of motorists said they would use eco-driving mode, up from 56% two years ago. This trend aligns with corporate sustainability goals, as fleets increasingly rely on efficient driving practices to meet environmental targets.
Convenience features are also becoming more popular, with park assist topping the list of desired technologies in the survey, followed by heated windscreens. For fleet drivers, who spend substantial time in their vehicles, such features offer comfort and ease of use, reflecting a broader preference for labour-saving technologies.
Simon Staton, Client Management Director at Venson said:The prevalence of ADAS in new vehicles is growing and as the technology becomes standard in more fleet vehicles, drivers are increasingly likely to use it. That said, some drivers remain wary of lesser-known ADAS features like blind junction view, traffic sign recognition (TRS) and overtaking sensors, which when used can enhance road safety and help reduce road fatalities. While it’s good news that motorists are more willing to use ADAS, fleet managers who include training on how to use all ADAS features in their driver training programme, could benefit from enhanced driver safety statistics.
As the UK prepares for the integration of automated vehicles, fostering trust and understanding of ADAS arguably remains a critical step toward achieving safer, more sustainable roads.
This is particuarly relevant with many ADAS features set to be mandated in new cars from July 2024 under the General Safety Regulation (GSR).
