Microscopic Insights Into Autonomous Vehicles' Impact on Travel Time and Vehicle Delay

Abstract

The future of highway travel is being reshaped by autonomous vehicles (AVs). This microscopic study, conducted along a 9-kilometer highway in Ankara, Turkey, explores the dynamic relationship between AVs and travel time, as well as vehicle delay. Analyzing 17 scenarios with varying AV penetration rates (ranging from 25% to 100%) and diverse AV behaviors (cautious, normal, aggressive, and mixed) uncovered intriguing patterns. Cautious AVs, while promoting safety, introduced slightly slower travel times. In contrast, aggressive AVs prioritized efficiency and reduced travel times, striking a delicate balance between speed and safety. The introduction of mixed AV fleets demonstrated an exciting equilibrium, delivering competitive travel times and mitigating delays. Most notably, the presence of AVs in all configurations exhibited the potential to relieve congestion and enhance overall traffic flow. The findings offer a compelling microscopic perspective on the transformative potential of AVs in shaping the future of highway transportation. Understanding the complex dynamics of travel time and delay is critical for informed policy decisions and the evolution of urban mobility as autonomous vehicles (AVs) continue to improve. © The Institution of Engineering & Technology 2023.