Car-Following Models Based on Driving Strategies

The models introduced in this chapter are derived from assumptions about real driving behavior such as keeping a “safe distance” from the leading vehicle, driving at a desired speed, or preferring accelerations to be within a comfortable range. Additionally, kinematical aspects are taken into account, such as the quadratic relation between braking distance and speed. We introduce two examples: The simplified Gipps model, and the Intelligent Driver Model. Both models use the same input variables as the sensors of adaptive cruise control (ACC) systems, and produce a similar driving behavior. Characteristics that are specific to the human nature, like erroneous judgement, reaction time, and multi-anticipation, are discussed in the next chapter.