A driver model as development tool for vehicle handling design

First, a driver model is presented which, conceived as an information proce ssing unit, reproduces human driving behaviour and controls the vehicle up to its physical limits. Second, a new issue is introduced in the subjective assessment of vehicle handling characteristics. It is shown that subjectiv e ratings are essentially based on the effort a driver has to summon up to successfully solve the driving task. Combining the driver model and the eff ort issue generates a dynamic rating driver model. This rating driver model may be used together with vehicle models in simulation for vehicle handlin g design.