New technology is a growing factor in driver distraction; the prevalence of smartphones and sophisticated infotainment systems increases the potential for drivers to take their eyes off the road and their minds off the task of driving.

However, drivers have always been distracted, by traffic conditions, conversations, background noise and the actions of passengers. The nature of distraction is changing, and automakers must ensure that new technology reduces rather than increases the potential for distraction.

Automotive World’s report on driver distraction and the connected vehicle explores the ways in which automakers, suppliers and fleets can accommodate new technologies whilst also ensuring that vehicles are safe not only for the vehicle occupants but also all other road users.

In this report:

• Executive summary
• Driver distraction—the harsh realities
• Are automakers taking responsibility for ‘distracting’ infotainment systems?
• Driven to distraction: Is there too much in-car tech?
• Could better smartphone integration reduce driver distraction?
• Eyes on the road: Why head-up displays mean safer vehicles
• Hanging on the telephone: Android Auto leads the fight against driver distraction
• Speak easy: natural speech recognition essential for reducing driver distraction
• Truck-makers innovate to minimise driver distraction
• Do the right thing: a fleet perspective on tackling driver distraction
• Overselling driver assistance tech endangers brand reputation—and lives

‘Special report: Driver distraction and the connected vehicle’ provides insight from a range of automotive industry stakeholders, including:

• American Automobile Association (AAA)
• Android Auto
• European Transport Safety Council
• Foley & Lardner
• Mercedes-Benz Trucks
• Mobica
• SaveLIFE Foundation
• The Qt Company
• Toyota Collaborative Safety Research Center
• UPS
• Valeo
• Veoneer
• Volkswagen
• WayRay

…