Influence of ambient lighting in a vehicle interior on the driver’s perceptions

Abstract

An experimental study on the effects of vehicle ambient lighting on the subjective perception of the driver has been conducted. In an experimental vehicle 12 different ambient interior lighting scenarios were displayed to 31 people while driving in an immersive simulation which created a visual environment similar to a night drive. After each experimental run the driver answered different questions on their perception of the vehicle interior under the different lighting scenarios. The results showed that ambient lighting, although being in a peripheral position in the driver’s field of view, has several significant positive influences on space perception, interior attractiveness, perceived safety, functionality and perceived interior quality.