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Humanizing In-Vehicle Virtual Agents: A Systematic Review of Anthropomorphism and Its Impacts
DescriptionAs cars become smarter, many now include in-vehicle virtual agents (IVAs) designed to help drivers stay informed and engaged. These agents often have humanlike features—a concept known as anthropomorphism. But does giving a car a “personality” actually improve the driving experience? This study systematically reviews research on how anthropomorphic features (like faces, voices, and emotions) influence trust, engagement, and driver performance across different driving environments. By examining existing studies, we reveal that while humanlike agents can improve trust and user satisfaction—especially in highly automated vehicles—there are also risks, such as overreliance or reduced attention. The findings highlight the need for more consistent definitions, better evaluation methods, and careful design to ensure these technologies enhance safety. This review provides a roadmap for future research and more intuitive in-vehicle technologies.