Simulation, analysis and modelling of future efficient traffic systems

Purpose and goal

The purpose of this project is to model the role of the passenger car in future transport systems using traffic system simulations with the premise of improving efficiency and to minimize environmental impact. More specifically, it includes examining possible future mobility scenarios from an efficiency, environmental and profitability perspective. Analysis will be done for entire traffic networks and vehicle fleets as well as individual vehicles, in order to assess different scenarios and to find connections between how single vehicle characteristics affect system effects.

Expected effects and result

The project is expected to contribute with increased knowledge in traffic simulation from a mobility and efficiency perspective. A number of mobility scenarios will be developed and evaluated, where the focus will be on scenarios in the near future, which may include interaction of conventional and autonomous vehicles in existing traffic systems. Efficiency measures (such as energy consumption, traffic flow, travel time, etc.) will be studied based on aggregate information from infrastructure and vehicle fleets, which can contribute to the development of specific car functions.

Planned approach and implementation

This PhD project is separated into six work packages: Background study (WP1), Model development (WP2), Analysis of mobility scenarios (WP3), Efficiency analyses (WP4), Analysis of vehicle functions (WP5), and Continuous reporting and documentation (WP6). The project begins with WP1 and WP2 and then gradually moves on to WP3, which continues throughout the whole project. In parallel with WP3, first WP4 is implemented followed by WP5. The PhD student will compile project results (mainly concerning WP3-WP5) in at least 4 scientific journal articles as well as in a doctoral thesis.