A Comprehensive Review: Multisensory and Cross-Cultural Approaches to Driver Emotion Modulation in Vehicle Systems

Abstract

Road accidents are caused by multiple factors. Aggressive driving and traffic violations account for 74% of road traffic accidents. In total, 92% of fatalities occur in low- and middle-income countries. Drivers’ emotions significantly influence driving performance, making emotional modulation critical during vehicle interaction. With the rise of smart vehicles, in-vehicle affective computing and human-centered design have gained importance. This review analyzes 802 studies related to driver emotional regulation, focusing on 74 studies regarding sensory stimuli and cultural contexts. The results show that single-sensory methods dominate, yet multisensory approaches using auditory and visual elements are more effective. Most studies overlook cultural factors, particularly the differences in East–West cultural values, indicating a need to tailor modulation methods based on cultural preferences. Designs must emphasize adaptability and cultural consistency. This review aims to analyze driver emotional modulation thoroughly, providing key insights for developing vehicle systems that meet the diverse emotional and cultural needs of global drivers. Future research should focus on creating multisensory emotional modulation systems that offer positive reinforcement without causing excessive relaxation or aggression, accommodating subtle cultural and individual differences, thus enhancing the safety of autonomous driving.