New Technology Trial in Australia Heralded as a “Gamechanger” for Young Drivers

The recent trial of a new technology platform that can help young drivers make better decisions on the road has been described as a “game-changer” in Australia. Carried out from July 2018 to March 2019 by Australia’s New South Wales State government, 717 motorists under 25 participated in the telematics pilot scheme, making it the largest of its kind ever conducted anywhere in the world.

“Telematics is like a black box for cars and a fit bit for drivers that provides feedback to drivers via their smartphones on speed, acceleration, braking and turning,” NSW Minister for Customer Service Victor Dominello said on Tuesday.

“Young drivers simply love the technology and think it could make our roads safer - 89 per cent of trial participants believed the number of crashes on NSW roads would decrease if more drivers had telematics devices installed in their cars,” Mr Dominello said.

Across the state, younger drivers are 4.5 times more likely to be involved in a motor vehicle accident, with approximately 159 fatal crashes every year and a further 83 non-fatal crashes.

But thanks to the cutting-edge technology, inexperienced drivers who are making regular mistakes can now receive feedback on how to improve.

The final report concluding that after using the technology, participants had a far lower frequency and severity of speeding, harsh braking, rapid acceleration and harsh cornering behaviours.

“This trial has been a game changer, proving telematics has the potential to not only make young drivers safer and better, but also save lives,” NSW Minister for Transport and Roads Andrew Constance said.

Data from the trial is now being shared with the State Insurance Regulatory Authority and the NSW Centre for Road Safety.