Conversing with Our Cars and the Drive for More Aware Experiences, Applying Ambient Theory to Mobile Design

This paper considers the application of ambient theory for smart cities to vehicles as an approach to contributing greater understanding to increasingly more aware mobile environments. A review of the research and practice literature for people and car interactions is provided as well as for the use of theory in smart cities, environments, and mobile spaces, enabling formulation of a conceptual framework for more aware driving experiences aided by ambient theory. Methodologically, an exploratory case study approach is employed combined with an explanatory correlational design in operationalizing the conceptual framework formulated for use in this paper. Variables of interest such as sharing and access to public data are identified and assessed in relation to awareness, in search of patterns and relationships. Findings also emerge for awareness through online conference polling and in relation to the everyday driving experience, employed to gain insight into vehicular conversing and interacting. Limitations, challenges, and opportunities are identified giving rise to rich spaces for debate and exploration among vehicle manufactures; software developers; urban researchers, practitioners, and planners; and community members going forward.