Coalition suggests universal terms for advanced driver-assistance features

Itasca, IL — Aiming to “clear the confusion” caused by widely varying terminology for advanced driver-assistance system features, a coalition of auto industry and auto safety experts – together with the National Safety Council – has issued a set of expanded and updated recommendations for universal terms.

ADAS features have become increasingly common in new vehicles, and have the potential to reduce motor vehicle-related crashes and save lives. However, the terminology used by automakers to describe them “can confuse consumers and make it difficult to understand the vehicle’s functions,” NSC says.

The council adds that when the capabilities of vehicle safety features are overstated or misrepresented with marketing language, consumers may rely too much on these systems. So, establishing common language for ADAS will help “ensure drivers are fully aware these systems assist, not replace, an engaged driver.”

The list of recommendations has six overarching categories: collision warning, collision intervention, driving control assistance, parking assistance, driver monitoring and other driver assistance systems. The coalition is calling on automakers, regulators, safety organizations, journalists and other stakeholders to adopt the recommended standard language, and to educate consumers on the benefits, limitations and capabilities of ADAS.

Along with NSC, the “Clearing the Confusion” coalition includes experts from AAA, Consumer Reports, J.D. Power, PAVE and SAE International. Its effort began in 2019 with an initial list of standardized names and was endorsed by the Department of Transportation in 2020.