Effects of Sensory Cues on Perceived Simulated Speed

Driving speed is often underestimated in driving simulators. This study aimed to evaluate the influence of visual, acoustic, haptic and vestibular cues on speed perception in an advanced full motion driving-simulator. Two experiments were conducted: Passive driving (Baseline and Staircase paired comparison) and Active driving (Baseline and Self-paced driving). Participants had complete vehicle control only in the Self-paced driving, which took place on virtual versions of real roads. Twelve experienced drivers participated in both experiments. The results from the Self-paced driving show that the cue combination visual/vestibular was associated with significantly higher driving speeds at the Target speeds 50, 70 and 90 km/h. At 70 and 90 km/h, the cue combinations including the acoustic cue were associated with significantly lower speeds. These effects of vestibular and acoustic cues were reversed in the Baseline data at 90 km/h. No other effects from cue combinations were found, but the Baseline data (absolute speed estimation) showed that it was easier to judge the correct speed while accelerating (from 0 km/h) than while decelerating (from 120 km/h). The Staircase data (relative speed estimation) showed no significant effects. The indication that acoustic cues are important for speed judgement is consistent with real car studies