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Digital dashboards the next in-car safety hazard

By Matt Brogan |

Forget the mobile phone and the vanity mirror, for according to the UK’s Institute of Advanced Motorists, the next big in-car distraction is likely to be the internet dashboard, or ‘infotainment system’.

Intel and Google are both looking into interactive dashboards, including 10-inch screens above the gearstick which will show 3D maps, web pages and even videos. Other similar systems are being previewed at trade shows this week, including the Detroit Motor Show.

“If drivers were tempted to use the internet or watch videos on the move, the results could be deadly,” said Peter Rodger, IAM Chief Examiner.

“If it’s not acceptable to read a novel while driving, how can it be acceptable to read a multimedia display? Just how much information can a car driver absorb and still drive responsibly?

“There is a fine line between providing useful extra information and causing a dangerous distraction. This system appears to cross that line.

“Viewing things like restaurant reviews and venue information online while driving should be illegal, and it should be an offence to buy, sell, fit and transmit information for this particular use.”

The systems are not designed to be used on the move, but not all systems will be impossible to use while driving. One (unnamed) car manufacturer’s version, due out this March, bears the notice: ‘Please only use the online services when traffic conditions allow you to do so safely’.

“It should be made clear that the system should only be used when the vehicle is parked,” Mr Rodger commented.


 
  • Valet Dabess

    even if i had one of those in my car, i would not use it on the move, all i’d use it for is music

  • Hung Low

    I think digital radio in OEM systems would be enough. Where does the line get drawn for in car entertainment? All this info from this system is pretty much accessible from a mobile phone anyway, which can be operated on the move!

  • Steve

    Typical UK Nannystate comments! “Institute of Advanced Motorists” What the hell is an Advanced Motorist? Most car manufacturers trying to simplify the non-driving functions by grouping/arranging and presenting with as little distraction as possible. Look at Ford’s updated Sync and other OE’s with voice control etc.
    IMO the UK has a history of being over cautious or over precious when it comes to almost anything so I really hope people read this article with a sack of salt.

  • Gary

    How many people use their mobile while driving? 50% ? These same people and probably more will use the infotainment system while driving guaranteed. If they do this then they should make it compulsory to include something like Sharp’s dual view screen where the driver sees a different (basic) image from their viewing angle (while driving) compared to the passenger.

  • Shak

    I think this is the next technological step in automotive world. Jaguar/LR and Ford seem to have very good systems that dont seem to be killing too many drivers. Its just the sooky poms who cant multi-task. I for one would use it legally and probably only for the radio. If this is so dangerous then all Sat Nav and in car entertainment should be outlawed, because they distract the driver just as much

  • Matt

    Exactly, UK nanny state at it again. Check out the MyFord stuff… seems one of their aims was “minimise distractions”… can only use the phone through the steering wheel and voice command, web browser can only be used when parked… And anyone see the screen in the LR in Season 14 of Top Gear where from the driver’s side you see satnav / radio / etc while from the passenger side you can watch movies?

  • Andrew M

    I reckon this sort of stuff should be lawed like the in car TV’s.
    If in view of the driver, they must switch of when moving.

    Not all tech is bad,
    I reckon Bluetooth should actually be considered a safety item.
    Mine is great, the best thing since sliced bread.
    It is impossible to talk on the phone whilst driving. Jump in the car mid conversation, and it intercepts it rendering the handset useless. No temptation, and no fumbling around in my pocket when it rings.
    The Voice control just compliments it meaning I dont even have to look away to dial a number.

    As long as Tech is implemented properly, its no safety hazard