Japanese Automakers Integrate AI Technology to Develop Safety Driving Assistance Systems Capable of Detecting Driver Abnormalities and Analyzing Medical Symptoms

In recent years, traffic accidents involving elderly drivers in Japan have become frequent, with fatal accidents caused by drivers over 75 being more than twice as high as those caused by younger drivers. According to statistics from the Cabinet Office of Japan, the population aged 65 and over has reached the highest level among developed nations since 2005, hitting 28.4% as of 2019. Furthermore, one in four driver's license holders in Japan is 65 or older, showing a positive correlation between the age of elderly drivers and the accident fatality rate.

Statistics show that the mortality rate of traffic accidents caused by elderly drivers increases with age. This is primarily because physical functions gradually decline as people age, leading to a decrease in reaction capacity and judgment. Additionally, the visual and auditory functions of the elderly are susceptible to impairment, resulting in inaccurate perception of the surrounding environment. Under the combined influence of these factors, elderly drivers are more prone to making errors on the road, leading to traffic accidents.

In Japan, the emphasis on addressing issues related to elderly drivers continues to grow. Consequently, HONDA has collaborated with the National Institutes for Quantum Science and Technology (QST) to analyze drivers' brain and eye movements using Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) and sensors to identify the causes of errors that may lead to accidents. Furthermore, HONDA is developing a feature that uses cameras to detect a driver's gaze and warn them about pedestrians they might have missed.

Leveraging this technology, developers have created functions that alert drivers when their vigilance or spatial awareness decreases—such as when the vehicle sways or follows the car ahead too closely. By combining sensors and cameras with AI, the system can not only assist in driving but also further analyze the driver's physical state and medical symptoms. For instance, when a driver's visual response to traffic signals slows down, the system may warn that their field of vision has narrowed—a common symptom of glaucoma that is often difficult for patients to notice themselves. The technology developed by HONDA will provide drivers with advance notice of accident risks, allowing them to notice physical abnormalities before they become self-aware of the symptoms.

Beyond analyzing the driver's physical condition, this technology can provide personalized driving advice by collecting and analyzing various driving data to improve the overall driving experience. For example, based on the driver's habits and preferences, the AI system can suggest more fuel-efficient and safer driving methods, thereby reducing fuel consumption and carbon emissions.

As the development of AI becomes increasingly widespread, major automakers worldwide are committed to integrating AI technology to enhance the safety environment for drivers. Through IoT systems, AI technology achieves real-time monitoring and diagnosis, which not only helps drivers stay safe but also sends warning signals to surrounding vehicles to prevent accidents.

The research and application of this AI technology will bring a safer and more personalized driving experience to drivers in Japan and across the globe. As this technology continues to evolve, it is expected that even more innovative application scenarios will emerge, providing greater convenience and assurance for traffic safety and smart mobility.