Challenges and advantages in implementing ADAS systems in buses: a broad overview (Desafios e vantagens na implementação de sistemas ADAS em ônibus: uma visão abrangente)

Abstract

The implementation of ADAS in buses represents both a significant opportunity and a complex challenge for the future of urban mobility. While ADAS technologies such as lane departure warning, adaptive cruise control, blind spot detection, and autonomous emergency braking have been widely adopted in passenger cars and trucks, their integration into buses has been slower due to unique operational and safety concerns. This paper provides a broad overview of the advantages and obstacles associated with ADAS deployment in public transport vehicles, with particular emphasis on passenger safety, regulatory frameworks, and operational efficiency. Key barriers include the vulnerability of standing passengers during sudden braking events, the unpredictability of pedestrians and cyclists in dense urban environments, and the economic constraints faced by bus operators. At the same time, regulatory initiatives such as Transport for London’s Bus Safety Standard, the European Union’s General Safety Regulation, and Brazil’s MOVER program are driving the gradual adoption of these systems. The benefits of ADAS in buses extend beyond accident reduction, encompassing improved driver ergonomics, reduced fatigue, lower maintenance costs, and enhanced passenger comfort. Case studies from Europe, Brazil, and Asia highlight both the safety potential and the reluctance of drivers to fully embrace these technologies, often due to knowledge gaps and perceived inconvenience. The analysis underscores that successful implementation requires not only technological adaptation but also comprehensive driver training, infrastructure readiness, and public policy support. Ultimately, ADAS in buses should be understood as a transitional step toward autonomous mobility, offering immediate safety gains while reshaping the paradigm of urban transport.