Behavioural data science

Working with leading psychologists and behavioural scientists from the University of Bath and across the Lightfoot team, we have been able to develop our revolutionary driver scoring system. This has been informed by our ongoing research into driver behaviour and how best to influence it for maximum impact. Our patented algorithm works in tandem with the live engine data to understand how the vehicle is being driven and scores the driver across several key areas, including the smoothness of manoeuvres such as acceleration, braking, and cornering; the vehicle speed; and the timeliness of gear shifts, amongst other factors. This leads to a holistic overview of individual driving style alongside a simple score that can be understood at every level.

What differentiates the Lightfoot system further is the driver engagement aspect. Our devices combine nudge psychology – as you would find in a vehicle’s seatbelt warning system, for example – with a gamification aspect not dissimilar to that popularised by devices such as the Fitbit. The in-cab feedback is delivered through a series of audible and visual prompts, and drivers are incentivised to follow the guidance through exclusive weekly competitions, competitive leagues, and discounts via the app.

Our data science team then process the behavioural and algorithmic data collected through our devices to produce meaningful insights that help our customers and industry partners better understand road risk, fuel and energy consumption, and the environmental impact of vehicles. Further studies with the University of Bath’s Institute for Advanced Automotive Propulsion Systems (IAAPS) on this topic have shown that Lightfoot leads to a fivefold reduction in NOx particulates.