Assessing the impact of driving behaviors and traffic conflicts on vehicle emissions at non-signalized intersections using a trajectory-based computational framework

Abstract

Vehicle emissions can rise due to traffic conflicts and aggressive driving behaviors, such as frequent acceleration and deceleration. This issue is particularly pronounced at non-signalized intersections with a high proportion of non-motorized vehicles. In this study, we propose a framework that integrates a microscopic vehicle emission model with trajectory data. By utilizing trajectory data collected from a non-signalized intersection in Shanghai, we analyzed vehicle emissions linked to driving behaviors and traffic conflicts. Our findings reveal that pre-braking at the entrance of non-signalized intersections can significantly reduce vehicle emissions, lowering them by nearly 80 % for straight maneuvers. However, this reduction is less substantial for turning maneuvers. Additionally, conflicts involving more than two types of targets lead to a significant increase in vehicle emissions. On average, stop-and-go emissions are 1.13 % higher than those resulting from traffic conflicts. Interestingly, when non-motorized vehicles constitute more than 80 % of the traffic volume, stop-and-go emissions fall below those generated by traffic conflicts. The results of this study provide valuable insights for optimizing eco-driving strategies and advancing towards a low-carbon transportation system.