TA-23-C007 – Interactive Effects of Interior Ambient Light and Temperature on Thermal Comfort and Driving Performance

The hue-heat hypothesis suggests that color temperature can alter thermal perception, which could affect the driving experience and perception of interior space. This preliminary study investigates the interactive influence of interior ambient light and thermal environment on drivers' thermal comfort and performance in vehicles. Thirty participants with valid licenses and no simulator sickness history were exposed to neutral (23°C) or slightly warm (28°C) temperatures and randomly assigned red, blue, warm white (2700 K), or cool white (5000 K) light. They completed a 9-minute driving task under each light condition, and their performance was recorded using a high-fidelity simulator. After each task, participants assessed their environmental satisfaction through a survey. The study found that temperature had significant effect on drivers’ vote to the light brightness and thermal sensation. However, the preliminary study found no significant impact of temperature or light on driving performance.