Key facts
- National Highways is conducting simulations to assess driver distraction from low-flying drones.
- The drones would fly at altitudes of 10-20 meters, closer than current models.
- Tests measure physiological responses like heart rate and pupil dilation, alongside driving performance.
- The goal is to determine if these drones can be safely deployed for road monitoring by early 2027.
- Initial participant feedback suggests most did not find the drones hazardous.
National Highways, the UK's government-owned road agency, is exploring the use of smaller, lower-flying drones for monitoring motorways and A-roads. To assess potential driver distraction, the agency, in collaboration with engineering firm Arup and virtual reality company MXT, has conducted simulations where drivers navigate a virtual environment while drones fly overhead.
The purpose of these tests is to determine if the introduction of these drones, which could be deployed by early 2027, will negatively impact driver concentration and safety. Current drone usage by National Highways began in 2020, but the agency seeks to implement smaller drones that can fly at altitudes of 10 to 20 meters, closer to the road surface, to capture more detailed information at a lower cost compared to larger drones operating at around 50 meters.
The simulations, held in London, Manchester, and Birmingham, involved 120 regular drivers and 19 heavy goods vehicle drivers. Participants were unaware of the drone aspect until after the simulation, when they were asked about their experience. Metrics measured included heart rate, pupil dilation, time not looking ahead, speed, and steering control. While about half of participants noticed the drones, significantly fewer considered them hazardous.
Ewan Murdoch, a senior consultant at Arup, noted significant international interest in the testing methodology from Australia and the US. Callum Brown, senior adviser on airspace standards at National Highways, described the tests as 'cutting edge' and a 'world first' in applying this methodology nationally. One participant, Kevin McKeown, found the VR aspect unusual but stated that if the drones enhance safety, he supports their use, adding that drivers easily distracted by drones might have larger driving issues.