As safety awareness increases, a HERE Technologies survey finds that Indian drivers are prioritizing Advanced Driver Assistance Systems, with 82% willing to invest in ADAS-equipped vehicles to enhance road safety and reduce accidents.
12 Nov 2024 | 3333 Views | By Autocar Professional Bureau
A recent survey by HERE Technologies, a leader in location data and technology, has underscored a significant demand for improved road safety measures and growing interest in Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) among Indian road users. The survey, titled Safer Cars, Safer Roads, reveals key insights into public perceptions of ...
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A recent survey by HERE Technologies, a leader in location data and technology, has underscored a significant demand for improved road safety measures and growing interest in Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) among Indian road users. The survey, titled Safer Cars, Safer Roads, reveals key insights into public perceptions of road safety and attitudes toward vehicle safety technologies.
The survey results highlight several concerning trends about road safety. Over half of respondents reported having been involved in a traffic accident within the last two years, indicating an urgent need for both immediate and long-term measures. Commenting on these findings, Mohit Sharma, an automotive analyst at Counterpoint Research, explained that "India is facing a severe road safety crisis, with an alarming 53 road accidents and 19 fatalities occurring every hour across the country." He emphasised that integrating ADAS could play a critical role in reducing these fatalities, aligning with the government’s goal to halve road accidents by 2030. According to Sharma, collaboration between automakers, policymakers, and road safety organisations is essential for prioritising these advanced safety technologies in vehicles.
Two-wheeler riders appear to be particularly vulnerable on Indian roads. According to the survey, 91% of respondents regularly use two-wheelers, and 80% of those riders feel unsafe. This aligns with data from the National Crime Records Bureau, which identifies two-wheelers as the most hasardous mode of transport in India, often involved in fatal accidents.
In terms of road safety perception, the survey revealed a gap between public perception and actual awareness. Although 49% of respondents view Indian roads as relatively safe, a substantial 98% acknowledge the risk of accidents. The main causes cited include reckless driving behaviors like speeding and aggressive driving, as well as poor road conditions and distracted driving.
The survey also reflects strong support for ADAS technology, with 91% of respondents identifying it as critical to improving both driver and road safety. However, despite this demand, nearly half of those surveyed do not currently use ADAS-equipped vehicles. Nonetheless, 82% expressed a willingness to consider buying an ADAS-enabled vehicle, citing safety benefits as the primary reason for adoption.
Anuj Jain, Strategy & Business Development Lead at AWS Automotive & Manufacturing, highlighted the advantages of ADAS technology, noting that it "has the power to revolutionise the driving experience, ushering in a new era of safer and more secure roads." Jain added that by leveraging location intelligence, ADAS can enhance drivers’ ability to detect hazards and navigate challenging situations, ultimately reducing accidents and saves lives.
Trust in automated driving technologies appears to be on the rise as well, with 87% of respondents believing ADAS can enhance road safety and 79% expressing confidence in its ability to make safe driving decisions. Additionally, there is widespread support for government involvement in ADAS implementation, with 87% of respondents urging policymakers to consider ADAS as they develop future road safety regulations.
Abhijit Sengupta, Senior Director & Head of Business for Southeast Asia and India at HERE Technologies, emphasised the importance of such measures, stating, "Our survey highlights growing road safety concerns in India at a critical time when both automakers and policymakers are recognising the urgency of enhancing road infrastructure and technology." Sengupta added that HERE Technologies is committed to bridging the gap in ADAS adoption through its location intelligence solutions, designed to tackle issues like wrong-side driving and congestion, ultimately supporting government efforts to set effective safety standards.
The survey indicates that safety is the main factor driving interest in ADAS, with 78% of potential buyers listing it as their primary reason for considering ADAS-enabled vehicles. Additional factors, such as reliability and ease of use, also influence purchasing decisions. Interestingly, cost, brand, and whether a vehicle is made in India were less significant than the safety and performance benefits ADAS offers.
These findings illustrate the increasing importance of ADAS adoption in India’s efforts to improve road safety. By addressing the nation’s road safety concerns with advanced technologies, HERE Technologies and its industry partners aim to foster a safer driving environment for all road users.