A new online tool is giving drivers the chance to test how distracting their car’s technology can be, as RACT and the Australian Automobile Association (AAA) warn motorists to stay focused behind the wheel.
The first-of-its-kind research commissioned by Australian automobile clubs and conducted by the University of Newcastle, found significant differences between popular vehicle infotainment systems, with Apple CarPlay rated the least distracting, and native systems in the Polestar 2, Ford Ranger and Toyota Corolla the next best performers.
RACT’s Chief Mobility Officer Dean Harris says the findings were particularly important for Tasmania, where inattention and distraction contribute to nearly a quarter of fatalities and serious injuries on the state’s roads.
The AAA research assessed a selection of popular vehicle infotainment systems against common and legal tasks, including making and receiving phone calls and texts, playing music and using navigation.
University of Newcastle researcher Dr Rachael Wynne says Apple CarPlay was the least distracting of the systems tested.
“Apple’s infotainment system scored five stars with an average of two steps per task,” Dr Wynne said.
“The Polestar 2, Ford Ranger and Toyota Corolla’s systems were the next best, scoring four stars with an average of three steps.
“At 80km/hr, for each second your eyes are off the road, you are essentially driving blind for over 22 metres – so for every extra step you have to take, the distraction really adds up.”
Mr Harris said the findings were a reminder for drivers to prepare their vehicles before setting off and avoid interacting with technology while driving.
“There’s no such thing as a safe amount of distraction when you’re driving. We want motorists to think about how they’re interacting with their cars and make sure they’re using the technology as safely as possible,” he said.
“Put your mobile phone away and finish any calls or messages before you drive, set your GPS and work out where you’re going before leaving, and make sure children and pets are settled and secure.
“Once you’re on the road, don’t drive tired or under the influence, take breaks on longer journeys and, if something needs your attention, pull over somewhere safe. Some tasks simply shouldn’t be performed while driving.”
Tasmania’s road death rate was 7.6 per 100,000 residents in 2025, compared with the national rate of 4.8.
For more information and to test your vehicle’s infotainment system, visit www.aaa.asn.au.
