FYI: Debunking 5 Big Myths About ADAS
WORDS BY ANTONINA JOSON
Think you know absolutely everything about ADAS? Check again! We are looking into common misconceptions about ADAS to help you understand this long-standing feature in the automotive world.
Myth 1: ADAS is a recent invention.
ADAS has been around longer than you’ d expect, but pinpointing its exact starting point is a bit tricky. In 1958, Chrysler introduced the world to cruise control. Over ten years later, manufacturers began equipping passenger vehicles with anti-lock braking systems( ABS).
Sometime in the 80s, Toyota began equipping some of its concept models with automotive radars, but these models never made it to mass production. Meanwhile, the Eaton Corporation was developing its own version of radar technology, leading to the invention of Collision Warning System. The Collision Warning System was not only expensive but made exclusively for trucks.
Now, around 35 per cent of all new vehicles are equipped with ADAS, with each manufacturer having its own terms for its native systems. Some markets such as Europe, the US, and China even require AEB to be equipped in all vehicles, making ADAS features a well-known norm in automotive safety.
Myth 2: ADAS only refers to autonomous driving.
Currently, ADAS is once again at the forefront of automotive trends with autonomous driving innovating and evolving faster than the industry can keep count. As this feature become more popular and promoted in various media, it’ s easy for the uninformed to assume that the“ AD” in“ ADAS” stands for autonomous driving.
There many features considered as ADAS that address specific vehicle functions, such as; steering, tyres, communication, headlights, brakes, and even the powertrain. Lane Keep and Centring Assist systems, light control, speed limiters, and Electronic Stability Programs are just a few examples of the many features that are considered ADAS.
Myth 3: All vehicles with autonomous driving equipped are fully autonomous.
Unfortunately, sci-fi level fully autonomous vehicles don’ t exist quite yet. There are several levels of autonomous driving. A vehicle equipped with autonomous driving does not necessarily mean it is a fully“ self-driving car.” It depends on the vehicle’ s level and how much human intervention it needs in relation to the level of autonomy.
To keep it brief, a level 0 car has no driving automation whatsoever. Level 1 has some assistance applied to braking or steering, otherwise the driver is in full control of the vehicle. Level 2 vehicles are equipped with ADAS and have partial driving automation. These vehicles still require monitoring from the human driver and the human driver must be ready to take control of the vehicle at any point.
Level 3 vehicles have conditional driving automation, wherein they no longer need consistent monitoring from a human driver. The driver may only divert their attention under specific circumstances but may keep their hands off the wheel. At level 4, vehicles are classified as having high driving automation. Under level 4, vehicles are fully automated for self-driving with little need for human attention or intervention.
Lastly, level 5 vehicles have full driving automation and do not need human intervention or specific circumstances to operate. In this case, a fully autonomous vehicle may no longer need a steering wheel or even pedals to control the vehicle. Human occupants are no longer drivers, but all are passengers.
Myth 4: An ADAS feature guarantees 100 % safety in all situations.
Designed to make a ride safer? Yes. Fool-proof in all situations? Not necessarily.
ADAS is there to help drivers make smarter, safer decisions and sharpen their focus while on the road. Sensors will be able to perceive conditions that humans can’ t but are susceptible to malfunctioning at times. Dirt, snow, sand, or other build up can cause sensors to break down.
6 ISSUE 61 OCTOBER 2026 / WWW. AFMA. ORG. AU