Self-driving cars could feature ‘digital displays’ to communicate with cyclists

Self-driving cars of the future could feature ‘digital displays’ to help keep cyclists safe on the road – according to a paper from Scottish researchers. Traffic-light-like projections onto the road or even emojis displayed on their surfaces could allow autonomous vehicles to share advance warning of their movements with bike riders. Together, they are exploring ways to replace the complex non-verbal language currently shared between drivers and cyclists once cars begin driving themselves. The virtual driver concept would embed displays in autonomous vehicles’ windscreens, side windows and mirrors. Our participants want autonomous vehicles to signal their awareness of cyclists, and to allow cyclists to continue the behaviours they’ve already learned in keeping safe on the roads.