Agent-based modelling of car platooning for traffic optimization

Transport is a fundamental aspect of the economy and society. In the area of mobility, there is always environmental safety involved. This case is no different. In fact, with greenhouse gas emissions still increasing [1], it is a major issue in Europe right now. Therefore, it is crucial to explore ideas that can minimise the existing air pollution. Alongside smog, road safety also needs to be considered. For instance, in 2015, over 26,000 people died and nearly 1.5 million people were injured on the roads [1] across the European Union. Therefore, it should be noted that human error has been identified as a contributing factor in over 90% of all road accidents. Hence, ideas that can jointly reduce human errors and air pollution are worth exploration. Autonomous vehicle technology is becoming more advanced every day. However, even without it, it is possible to “improve” car travel. In this context, we consider how an agent system that brings together multiple vehicles to form a “platoon” can effectively address problems in both areas.