The study takes the form of an online video ‘survey’ where participants find themselves behind the wheel of an online driving simulator and are asked a series of questions based on what they have just seen.

There are two sessions to the survey: one shows an urban setting and another a motorway. For the urban scenario, the video pauses at random intervals and questions appear on screen asking, for instance, whether other vehicles or people were around you before the video stopped, what the speed limit is and the content of the last sign you passed.

On the motorway, respondents are tested for their attention and reaction times. The idea is to indicate the direction of a lane change before the vehicle starts moving.

A short questionnaire on general views and opinions towards the use of online driving videos is also included. The survey takes between 30 and 50 minutes to complete and all participants are entered into a draw to win a cash prize.

“This survey aims to assess how digital technology can contribute to addressing a range of contemporary challenges,” explains University of Surrey senior transport lecturer Dr Nikolas Thomopoulos who is leading the ‘Ready2Drive’ project. “These include the feasibility and acceptability of digital technology for driving support and increasing accessibility for older drivers.”

He added: “This project aims at addressing the Inclusive Ageing goals of UK national policies – both socially and technologically – and put the UK at the forefront in this field.”

A range of digital technologies are currently being tested in the UK and overseas to assist driving which range from in-vehicle to remote controlled technology, he continued. “The Ready2Drive project aims at evaluating and enhancing available digital technology options.

“Research has demonstrated that different users respond differently to different cues, so both need to be designed and evaluated.”

Dr Nikolas Thomopoulos added that focusing on the over 60s in the study is important because there is “a specific gap in support for older drivers”.

Results from the project will allow the research team to offer insights about new technologies, further develop new systems and provide policy recommendations based on both quantitative and qualitative research.

To take part, visit surrey.ac.uk/ready2drive2021a