Today the first ADAS Partner Event took place in the building of the Dutch Association of Insurers in The Hague. Over 30 participants of the ADAS Alliance listened to concise, inspiring presentations by Geeke Feiter (Director Dutch Association of Insurers), Renate Hemerik (Chairman VNA), Jos van Kleef (Chairman ADAS Alliance) and Ilse Harms (traffic psychologist).
Studies show that ADAS reduces the chance of an accident, Geeke testified. However, for an optimal effect, we must ensure sufficient knowledge among the user. The circumstances and the interaction with the environment are also important.
From the perspective of the leasing sector, Renate called for a joint look at the customer journey of the lease driver: what are good moments to inform them about (the operation of) ADAS. Employers also have a role in this.
Jos provided an insight into the ADAS Alliance's plans for 2025 and beyond, calling on participants to actively participate in those plans.
Two interactive workshops addressed (1) how knowledge of ADAS and (2) how safe use of ADAS can be further improved. The results of these sessions will be incorporated into the plans for the coming years.
After the break, traffic psychologist Ilse Harms zoomed in on the image formation surrounding ADAS – all kinds of research are being done on this. The term 'autonowashing' is gaining ground, suggesting a higher degree of automation than the system can actually deliver. Comparable to 'greenwashing' but for vehicle automation. She also mentioned the lack of clarity of the symbols and colours used in a modern dashboard – leaving the driver confused.
The message that driver assistance systems can make a major contribution to road safety remains – but there is certainly still work to be done and cooperation is essential. The ADAS Alliance is happy to take on this challenge together with the participants!