Drive2theFuture

Automated transport - exploring drivers’ acceptance and developing potential training methods

The Drive2theFuture project aims to improve industry and operator understanding of connected, cooperative and automated transport modes. In order to achieve this goal, the project will consider the wants and needs of the industry, as well as its acceptance of new technologies.

A total of 13 pilots across Europe will be organized in order to provide operators with experience of and training on automation in various conditions, including the use of simulations, test tracks and real-world environments. The pilot training sessions will include all automated transport modes, such as cars, trucks, buses, trains, workboats, and even drones.

IRU's role

The IRU Projects team is leading the development of training programmes and certification standards for professional truck, bus, coach and taxi drivers.

Thanks to its insight gained from the commercial road transport industry, IRU will provide input from the industry’s point of view on legal and ethical issues. The challenges associated with the decision-making processes of automated vehicles and drivers under various circumstances will also be assessed. Consideration will further be given to the broader needs of the industry in terms of connectivity and automation.

Assessment of the pilot training programmes, certification requirements, acceptance creation measures and impact on employment will similarly be conducted.

Project results

The Drive2theFuture project intends to assess user acceptance and awareness of automation and automated operation efficiency. Within the framework of the project, the behaviour of automated vehicle operators will be modelled and an assessment of possible training methods for users of automated vehicles will be carried out.

The results of this work, including concrete recommendations, will be shared with the European Parliament’s Committee on Transport and Tourism (TRAN) and the relevant Directorate Generals of the European Commission.