Analysis of replacing conventional rear-view mirrors with camera-based systems in urban buses: an experimental study in real driving conditions

The use of new instrumentation in vehicles is allowing the introduction of systems such as camera-based mirrors. However, in some types of vehicles such as urban buses, there is limited evidence of their impact on real-life conditions. This research presents an experimental study of buses operating both a route with passengers and another in a controlled scenario. Conventional mirrors are compared with two configurations of camara-based systems (displays mounted on the dashboard and on the front pillars). Eye-tracking behaviour is recorded and self-reported measures of acceptance (usability, usefulness, satisfaction, perceived safety, use preference), and mental effort are collected. The results show that differences between conventional mirrors and displays placed on the pillars are not statistically significant in basic eye patterns, but worse behaviour is detected in case of dashboard displays. These results may be useful for transport operators, technology manufacturers, and policymakers in the urban public transport sector.