How to Indicate AI at Work on Vehicle Dashboards: Analysis and Empirical Study

Abstract

The KARLI project aims to create an adaptive AI system for future vehicles. It’s focusing on motion sickness, level-compliant driver behavior, and AI-HMI (artificial intelligence human-machine Interface). The project explores making AI activities visible through avatars, aiming to enhance user experiences and empower users to understand and influence AI decisions for a positive interaction with technology. AI representations in HMIs range from non-representational to realistic, introducing a classification that includes “HMI-integrated.” The analysis explores AI representations in vehicle HMIs, citing Nio's Nomi and Waymo's ride service as examples. AI depictions in films, ranging from abstract (HAL 9000) to realistic (Ava from “Ex Machina”), are examined. The KARLI project aims to differentiate itself by explicitly representing AI activity on screens in non-fictional and automotive contexts. Pros and cons of different levels of abstraction in AI avatars are made. A study predominantly involving females and younger individuals, showing a positive attitude toward AI was conducted. Three design variants of the avatar were tested in a comparative laboratory study. All tested designs received negative Net Promoter Scores, with the abstract figurative design rated the best and the figurative design the creepiest. All designs scored low on “Intention to Use,” indicating participants’ reluctance, and “Product Loyalty” echoed this sentiment. A final design was created based on the results of analysis and study.