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Clearing the Confusion: Recommended Common Naming for Advanced Driver Assistance Technologies

Initiative launched publicly in 2018; document last updated August 2020

* AAA * Consumer Reports *
* J.D. Power * National Safety Council *
* Partners for Automated Vehicle Education *
* SAE International *

Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) have become increasingly prevalent on new vehicles, but the terminology used by automakers to describe them varies widely and so far has focused on marketing strategies.

The common naming outlined in the “Clearing the Confusion” document is simple, specific and based on system functionality. The list is meant to aid in reducing driver confusion and define the functions of ADAS in a consistent manner. This is critical to ensure that drivers are aware these systems are designed to assist, not replace an engaged driver.

The list is not meant to replace automaker proprietary system or package names, but rather help identify key functions within those packages and provide clarity to consumers. The list will be continually refined as we work with other stakeholders and as new systems are developed.

Click here for the full “Clearing the Confusion” document.

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Primary contact for Consumer Reports: Kelly Funkhouser, Program Manager, Vehicle Interface Testing, 860-537-0763 x 7308

CR Advocacy contact: William Wallace, Manager of Safety Policy, 202-462-6262

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