Within the framework of the operational programme COMPETITIVENESS of the Ministry of Development, Measure 3.3, Action line 3.3.1, Act 3.3.1.2 “Excellence in Research and Technological Organisations supervised by the Greek General Secretariat for Research and Development” a Centre of Excellence on driving behaviour issues was created in the Hellenic Institute of Transport. The Centre was equipped with a research vehicle able to record and analyse on-line driving behavioural parameters as well as able to simulate advanced driving assistance systems, a semi-dynamic driving simulator and a virtual reality system with software specific for transport applications. This project was funded by the European Union.

The research vehicle is based on a Lancia Thesis 2.4 20V Emblema model. It is equipped as follows:

• Front obstacle detection radar, providing information about front obstacles (distance, relative speed).
• GPS.
• Eyelid sensor and software, providing information regarding eyelid movements which are useful to estimate level of driver’s hypovigilance.
• Eye gaze sensor and software, providing information on the focus of attention of the driver at each specific time moment.
• Electronic unit which collects information from the vehicle electronic system and exports them to the central PC for processing. Such information include: acceleration pedal position, brake cylinder pressure, vehicle longitudinal speed and acceleration, yaw rate, steering wheel angle, lights status, wipers status, external temperature, etc.
• Main PC to record and store all information as well as on-line process it.
• Touch screen integrated in the vehicle dashboard driven by the main PC, so as to provide warnings to the driver.
• Special warning lights integrated in the central mirror and seat vibration unit, both driven by the main PC so as to provide adequate warnings to the driver.