Driving Posture Preferences Among Southeast Asian Drivers: Insights from Malaysia, Thailand, and Indonesia

Abstract

This study aims to determine the preferred seating positions and driving postures of passenger vehicle drivers in Southeast Asia, particularly in Malaysia, Thailand, and Indonesia. The outcomes are intended to improve the effectiveness of dummy placement in vehicle security evaluations, including the ASEAN NCAP procedure. A standardized questionnaire was created, validated by expert review, and disseminated online. The survey addressed six primary adjustable elements for drivers: seatback angle, seat sliding distance, steering wheel height, headrest height, seat height, and seat belt height. It assessed postural standards after adaptation, encompassing knee and leg orientation, upper body and head alignment, and hand positioning on the steering wheel. A total of 1,374 valid responses were obtained: 21% from Malaysia, 40% from Thailand, and 39% from Indonesia. Results demonstrate a regional norm where the majority of
drivers prefer a seatback angle of 90 degrees (48%), mid-position with elbow angle between 90 and 130 degrees (55%), mid-position of steering wheel height (47%), standard headrest height (49%), and a standard seat belt adjustment (58%). Most individuals adopt a slightly knee-bent and feet flat on the pedal (53%), upper body and head position with upright with head centered (76%), and their hands placed at the 9 and 3 o’clock steering positions (60%). Although several choices conform to ergonomic guidelines, others, such as the inability to alter seatbelt and headrest height, indicate a discrepancy between current practices and safety regulations. These findings are useful in enhancing the anthropometric applicability of crash test dummy configurations and guiding car interior design for Southeast Asian users. The results may be utilized to optimize crash test dummy positioning techniques, improve seat design ergonomics, and bolster vehicle safety assessments particular to ASEAN. It is advisable to bridge behavioral gaps through ergonomic education and adaptive design to improve real-world driver safety.