Interaction Design of Augmented Reality Head-Up Displays and Its Impact on Driver Behaviour - User study for Augmented Reality Head-Up Displays

Abstract

As modern vehicles become increasingly digitalised, drivers are exposed to a large amount of information through in-vehicle displays and navigation systems. While these systems are designed to support driving, they may also contribute to visual distraction and increased cognitive workload. Augmented Reality Head-Up Displays (AR-HUDs) have emerged as a potential solution by presenting navigation information directly within the driver’s forward field of view (FoV), with the aim of supporting more intuitive and road-focused interaction. This master’s thesis, conducted in collaboration with Volvo Cars Corporation, investigates how AR-HUD navigation visualisations influence driver behaviour compared to a non-HUD condition during real-world driving. The study focuses on visual attention distribution, perceived workload, situation awareness and user experience. A mixed-methods approach was applied, combining eye-tracking, raw NASA-TLX, SART-inspired questionnaires and semi-structured interviews. A within-subject design was used with 20 participants, where each participant experienced both AR-HUD and non-HUD conditions across two driving routes. The results indicate that the AR-HUD condition reduced perceived workload, particularly in terms of mental demand, effort and frustration. Eye-tracking results further showed reduced visual attention toward the Center Stack Display (CSD), suggesting more road-focused visual behaviour. Participants also described the AR-HUD as intuitive, supportive and easier to follow during navigation tasks. In addition, the AR-HUD improved navigation confidence and understanding of guidance information, especially in more complex driving situations. However, the findings also indicate that system effectiveness is dependent on design factors such as timing, spatial positioning and information density. Overall, this study provides empirical insights into AR-HUD use in real-world driving and contributes knowledge relevant to the design of future in-vehicle navigation systems aimed at improving driver attention, workload and user experience, which could increase safety.