Reducing fuel consumption and tailpipe nitrogen oxides emissions through large-spacing truck platooning

To enable safe and efficient truck platooning on public roads with hilly terrain, this study develops an innovative controller using real-world truck data from the on-road platooning trials. The designed controller maintains safe spacing while simultaneously saving fuel and minimizing tailpipe nitrogen oxides (NOx) emissions. A two-truck platoon implementing the controller is simulated using validated models based on experimental data. The results show that the developed controller effectively limits spacing errors within a preset safety buffer. Even at time gaps exceeding 2 s, the follower truck achieves up to a 23.2% reduction in NOx emissions and a 6.6% fuel saving under the Alberta Highway 2 driving cycle with varying road grades. These benefits stem from suppressing rapid engine torque fluctuations and minimizing unnecessary decelerations and accelerations. This study highlights the feasibility of large-spacing truck platooning in real-world conditions, ensuring safety while optimizing fuel consumption and emissions.