Focus on role of augmented reality in self-driving cars

Researchers have been testing the potential of augmented reality to allow drivers to enjoy the benefits of being driven by an autonomous vehicle while enabling them to quickly take the wheel if required. As self-driving cars become more common on our roads, a key question for future road safety is how to balance passengers’ desire to relax during their trip with remaining aware of road hazards and being ready to retake control.

The University of Glasgow research suggests that placing attention-grabbing graphics over real-world views through car windscreens using augmented reality heads-up displays (HUDs) could help drivers to use entertainment apps while still maintaining awareness of the road.