In-Car Ubiquitous Computing: Driver Tutoring Messages Presented on a Head-Up Display

In this paper, we explore the use of ubiquitous computing in cars from a user psychological point of view. Cars have become an integral part of our modern society and are an attractive opportunity for ubiquitous computing. We chose to study the human dimension of in-car ubiquitous computing with a new driver tutoring system which gives guidance messages for a safer and more economical driving style. The system was tested in a driving simulator and both qualitative and quantitative data was collected. We discuss the safety effects of the system and also the differences in results between novice and experienced male and female drivers. We conclude by presenting the key enhancements revealed in the experiment and by discussing the initial results from the perspective of user psychology. Furthermore, we point out future directions for the work that needs to be done for the system to be actually implemented