Where Is Computing Driving Cars?

Cars offer an excellent example of ubiquitous computing, and a technological revolution is currently underway that will eventually see in-vehicle computers empowered with increasingly complex sections of the driving task. In this article, we critically review the effect of ubiquitous computing in cars with reference to the psychology of the driver and present a survey of automotive researchers drawn from five major carmakers. The results illustrate the role of the computer in vehicles over the short, medium, and long term. Systems that are likely to be fitted into vehicles in the next 5 years include sophisticated electronic architectures and greater penetration of navigation and telematics systems. In the next 5 to 15 years drive by wire and collision sensing are anticipated. In the long term, 15 years and beyond, advanced driver-assistance systems will increasingly automate the driving task, and in-car personal computers and Internet will be commonplace. We conclude that the increased complexity and prominence of computing in cars requires further investigation of the needs, abilities, and limitations of the driver if the aims of safety, efficiency, and enjoyment, as well as greater ubiquity, are to be realized.