Ford researchers are now experimenting with “driverless” cars to test light-based communication with pedestrians to build trust, according to an article by Tech Radar.

Ford modified one of its Transit Connect vans with a roof-mounted light bar that indicated if the vehicle was driving, about to pull away or giving way, according to the article. These messages would normally be communicated by the driver of the car via hand signals, body language or eye contact.

Last year, Jaguar Land Rover conducted a similar experiment using googly eyes to autonomous pods on a simulated street. In Ford’s case, though, Ford’s tests took place on real streets with a human driver disguised as a car seat. The drivers were specially trained, and an assistant in the back of the van served as a backup, according to the article.

To read the full article, click here.