For over a decade, vehicle manufacturers have been integrating intelligent technologies into their designs including Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS), developed to enhance driving safety, efficiency, and driver comfort. ADAS employs automated technology to mitigate accident risks by reducing human error, the leading cause of road accidents in the UK.

For fleet professionals, ADAS seems like an ideal tool to enhance driver safety and reduce accident-related costs. Recent research, however, suggests a gap in driver understanding of ADAS systems which could limit their effectiveness. For example, some drivers remain wary of lesser-known ADAS features like blind junction view, traffic sign recognition (TRS) and overtaking sensors, which when used can enhance road safety and help reduce road fatalities. So, as ADAS advances into public sector fleets, fleet professionals must understand the pros, cons and key considerations of ADAS and pass that knowledge onto fleet drivers.

With just a year to go until automated vehicles (AVs) could potentially be on UK roads, the key fact to remember is that ADAS does not remove the responsibility of the driver from operating their vehicle safely at all times. Instead, ADAS requires a change in driver behaviour to ensure that fleet drivers understand the technology and how best to use it in order to be able to adapt to road and traffic conditions as well as legal driving requirements.

Embracing ADAS

ADAS technologies typically fall into the areas of driving, safety, and parking.

Driving systems generally help improve the driving experience, for instance, automating and adapting the speed of driving based on road layout and the position of other vehicles on the road. Technology such as adaptive cruise control and driving assist are now commonly available in new cars.

Using pre-emptive warnings and the use of sensors, ADAS safety helps the driver to react to hazards while driving. Examples of systems available in vehicles are collision avoidance and blind spot monitoring.

Automating help with parking is an ADAS technology available from several manufacturers. As the name suggests it makes parking easier, aiding with manoeuvring the car in and out of parking spaces without the need for driver intervention.

The availability of ADAS in new models of cars is widespread, helping to reduce human error, prevent collisions, protecting both fleet drivers and the public. Added to this, features like Adaptive Cruise Control and Traffic Light Recognition have the dual benefit of optimising driver behaviour and helping to improve fuel efficiency, therefore supporting public sector sustainability initiatives. Finally, fewer accidents mean reduced claims, potentially leading to lower insurance premiums over time. Some insurers even offer discounts for ADAS-equipped vehicles.

How does ADAS work?

To understand the pros and cons of ADAS it helps to know how it works.

ADAS technology utilises a combination of cameras, sensors and radar software. These monitor the environment around the vehicle continuously. Positioned at various points around the car they assist in providing a 360-degree view of the road, monitoring possible hazards. With the wide range visibility and sensors, ADAS can react more quickly to dangers than the driver.

An ADAS controller collects the information provided by the cameras and sensors. The controller assists the driver by automating decisions based on the information it has received at that time. There are some ADAS systems that have automatic intervention. For example, lane assist, which if the driver drifts out of their lane on the motorway, will make the driver aware and, in some instances, autonomously steer the vehicle back into the lane.

When selecting vehicles, fleet operators and drivers can find out more about the technology available in models by reviewing the safety assist category of the Euro NCAP ratings.

Pitfalls of ADAS

As ADAS technology evolves it is essential to understand the drawbacks and limitations. Over-reliance on any technology can be dangerous, not least ADAS. That’s why driver education is key, to ensure all drivers understand how different ADAS features work, as the driver maintains overall control of the vehicle.

Another factor to consider is recalibration and maintenance of ADAS features. The sensitive cameras and sensors can get damaged or dirty which could lead to malfunction. Fleet professionals and drivers must keep on top of ADAS maintenance and repairs, which can be costly, if not included in regular vehicle checks.

ADAS will continue to change the way vehicles are driven and plays a crucial role in reducing accidents. As automated vehicles approach, it is essential for fleet managers to advance their own education and keep pace with ADAS technology.

This article was originally published in the Spring 2025 issue of LAPV. Sign up here to receive your free copy of future issues.