About

The mission of the CONNECT Project is to help novice and mature drivers understand and effectively use Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) to enhance their safety and confidence on the road. By providing hands-on training, research, and real-world testing, CONNECT aims to bridge the gap between emerging technologies and driver awareness, particularly as SAE Level 3 automation becomes more prevalent.

Why is This Project Important?

ADAS technology is becoming increasingly common in vehicles, but many novice and mature drivers are unfamiliar with how to use these systems effectively. Some may hesitate to use them, while others may over-rely on automation. Understanding how these technologies function is crucial for safe driving.

The CONNECT Project studies how these vulnerable driver groups interact with ADAS and develops hands-on training to help them maximize the benefits of these safety systems.

How Does the Project Work?

The research follows four key phases:

Phase 1

Understanding How Drivers Use ADAS

Analyzing driving data from thousands of Canadians to see which ADAS features are used and how often.

Phase 2

Testing Driver Behaviour in Simulated and Real-World Scenarios

Using driving simulators and test track experiments to see where drivers struggle with ADAS.

Phase 3

Developing Hands-On Training for ADAS Features

Develop and validate training protocols that help drivers build mental models of ADAS functionality and improve their ability to interact with these systems.

Phase 4