Effect of the Configuration of Platooning Maneuvers on the Traffic Flow under Mixed Traffic Scenarios

Abstract

Automated driving and platooning are expected to augment the road capacity and improve the traffic. The authors previously demonstrated that it is necessary to take into account platooning maneuvers in order to properly understand and quantify the impact of automated driving on the traffic under mixed traffic scenarios where automated and non-automated vehicles coexist. These scenarios are particularly relevant since platooning and automated driving will be gradually introduced, and non-automated vehicles can interfere with the maneuvers. This study progresses the current state of the art by studying the impact of the configuration of platooning maneuvers on the traffic flow under mixed traffic scenarios. The study focuses on the impact of the desired and safe gaps and the maximum platoon length. These parameters determine if and how platooning maneuvers are executed. The study demonstrates that the three parameters have a significant impact on the traffic flow, and hence their configuration should be carefully studied to maximize the impact of platooning.