The NX 4.6 demo vehicles has been modified with electrochromic glass film that with the flick of a switch turns the windshield and windows from transparent to opaque instantaneously. In this test, the windows obscure the driver’s view for 4.6 seconds. (Lexus)
How long do you think it takes to glance at a text message when you’re driving? One second? Two seconds? You’re not alone. Most drivers believe that texting and driving create only a momentary distraction.
In reality, the average length of time it actually takes to send or receive a text message when you’re behind the wheel is 4.6 seconds, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. In illustrate the dangers of those few seconds of distracted driving, Lexus released a video on April 6 — or 4/6 — to bare this common misconception.
April is National Distracted Driving Awareness Month and a good time to regroup and reconsider the choices we make when we’re on the road, Lexus said in a statement.
Distracted driving is dangerous, claiming 3,142 lives in 2019 (the most recent available data) according to NHTSA. Texting is the most alarming distraction. At 55 mph, taking your eyes off the road for 4.6 seconds is like driving the length of an entire football field with your eyes closed.
In the video, “Driving Disrupted,” Lexus demonstrates what happens when drivers can no longer see the road for 4.6 seconds. (Lexus)
One-of-a-kind safety vehicle
In the new video called “Driving Disrupted,” Lexus demonstrates what happens when drivers can no longer see the road for 4.6 seconds. Participants (mostly young drivers) get behind the wheel of a Lexus NX on a closed course, thinking they’re taking the vehicle for a routine test drive. What they don’t know is that they are driving a one-of-a-kind specially modified version of the small SUV called the NX 4.6. It’s equipped with electrochromic technology that turns the windshield and windows from transparent to opaque instantaneously. The frosted glass will completely obscure the driver’s view for 4.6 seconds.
The video captures the chaos that ensues.
“Even the most advanced safety systems on the road today can’t replace the undivided attention of the driver,” said Vinay Shahani, vice president of Lexus marketing.
To learn more, visit Lexus.com/DrivingDisrupted.
