Custom Lexus NX 4.6 set to change your mind about texting and driving

How long do you think it takes to glance at a text message when you’re driving? One second? Two seconds? You’re not alone. Most drivers believe that texting and driving creates only a momentary distraction. The average length of time it actually takes to send or receive a text message when you’re behind the wheel is 4.6 seconds, according to research form the US National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA).

Lexus has released a new video to shatter this common misconception and to keep the roads safer. Texting is the most alarming distraction driver's face. At 90km/h, taking your eyes off the road for 4.6 seconds is like driving the length of an entire football field with your eyes closed.

The Lexus video demonstrates exactly what happens when drivers can no longer see the road for 4.6 seconds. The participants get behind the wheel of a Lexus NX on a closed course, thinking they’re taking the vehicle for a routine test drive. What they don’t know is that they’re not driving an ordinary NX. They’re driving a one-of-a-kind specially modified vehicle called the NX 4.6.

The NX 4.6 is equipped with electrochromic glass technology that turns the windshield and windows from transparent to opaque instantaneously, completely obscuring the driver’s view for 4.6 seconds. The video captures the chaos that ensues.

Related: New research shows 3 in 4 Aussie drivers multi-task behind the wheel despite dangers

Related: Five bad driving habits that need to stop for the sake of your passengers

Related: Vehicle infotainment systems found to be more distracting than texting while driving