ABSTRACT
One of the challenges connected with the use of modern communication and information technology in road traffic, is the development of a so called ‘codriver’ system. Where in airplanes the use of smart sensors, fly-by-wire systems and intelligent failure detection and identification methods is becoming common, the lack of using these modern techniques in automobile control becomes more and more visible. Given the accident and pollution figures related to road traffic one could even suggest that conventional techniques have dominated land traffic technology far too long. Recent European research programmes, such as PROMETHEUS and DRIVE, have recognized this situation and have initiated a series of projects which aim to develop knowledge and techniques that may help to regain control over road traffic in Western European countries.
