“We evaluated partial automation systems from BMW, Ford, General Motors, Genesis, Lexus, Mercedes-Benz, Nissan, Tesla and Volvo,” said IIHS President David Harkey. “Most of them don’t include adequate measures to prevent misuse and keep drivers from losing focus on what’s happening on the road.”
The Teammate system on the Lexus LS is the only one that obtained an ‘Acceptable’ rating, while the GMC Sierra and Nissan Ariya received ‘Marginal’ ratings. Alarmingly, the Volvo S90, Tesla Model 3, Genesis G90, Mercedes-Benz C-Class, and Ford Mustang Mach-E all obtained the dreaded ‘Poor’ rating. It’s worth noting the Lexus LS and Nissan Ariya are also available with poorer-performing safeguard systems.
IIHS Senior Research Scientist Alexandra Mueller says these systems are plagued with shortcomings and notes that many don’t “adequately monitor” whether the driver is paying attention. While there are attention reminders, they are not noticeable and don’t alert the driver soon enough. “Many [systems] can be used despite occupants being unbelted or when other vital safety features are switched off,” she added.