Module 5-ITS,4th Half-3rd Internal Notes
Module 5-ITS,4th Half-3rd Internal Notes
Vehicles in Platoons
Definition: Vehicle platooning is the linking of two or more vehicles in a convoy,
using technology to maintain close proximity and coordinated movement. The lead
vehicle controls the speed and direction, while the following vehicles automatically
adjust their movements accordingly.
Objectives of Vehicle Platooning
Increase Road Capacity: By reducing the space between vehicles, platooning can
increase the number of vehicles that can travel on a roadway.
Enhance Safety: Automated coordination reduces the risk of collisions.
Improve Fuel Efficiency: Reduced air resistance in tightly packed groups of vehicles
leads to significant fuel savings.
Reduce Driver Fatigue: Automated driving in platoons allows drivers to relax more
than in traditional driving scenarios.
Key Technologies in Vehicle Platooning
Vehicle-to-Vehicle (V2V) Communication: Enables constant data exchange between
vehicles in the platoon for synchronized movement.
Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC): Maintains a set speed and distance from the
vehicle ahead.
Lane Keeping Assistance (LKA): Ensures vehicles stay within their designated
lanes.
Autonomous Braking: Automatically applies brakes if a collision risk is detected.
Benefits of Vehicle Platooning
Fuel Efficiency: Leading to lower fuel consumption and reduced greenhouse gas
emissions.
Traffic Flow Optimization: Smoother traffic flow with fewer sudden stops and
starts.
Safety: Reduced likelihood of rear-end collisions due to synchronized braking.
Comfort: Reduced driver workload and stress.
Challenges of Vehicle Platooning
Technical Reliability: Ensuring consistent and fail-safe communication between
vehicles.
Cybersecurity: Protecting the communication network from hacking and data
breaches.
Regulatory Issues: Developing and harmonizing regulations across different regions
and countries.
Public Acceptance: Building trust in the safety and reliability of automated driving
technologies.
Case Studies and Projects
SARTRE (Safe Road Trains for the Environment): A European project
demonstrating the feasibility of platooning for both freight and passenger vehicles.
Peloton Technology: An American company that develops and tests platooning
systems primarily for trucks.
Scania and Volvo Projects: Swedish manufacturers involved in developing and
testing platooning technologies.
Future Trends in Vehicle Platooning
Integration with Autonomous Vehicles: Full automation of all vehicles in the
platoon for enhanced efficiency and safety.
5G and Beyond: Leveraging advanced communication networks for faster and more
reliable V2V communication.
Platooning as a Service: Developing business models where platooning is offered as
a service to transport companies.
Interoperability Standards: Creating global standards to ensure seamless operation
of platooning systems across different regions and manufacturers.