Assessing Traffic Performance: Comparative Study of Human and Automated HGVs in Urban Intersections and Highway Segments

Abstract

This study conducts a comparative analysis of traf�ic dynamics at urban signalized intersections and on highways, incorporating both human-operated and automated heavy goods vehicles (HGVs) using the PTV VISSIM simulation model. It examines the impacts of automated driving technologies on critical traf�ic performance metrics such as queue length, travel time, vehicle delay, emissions, and fuel consumption. Initial �indings indicate that automation in HGVs enhances traf�ic �low, particularly by reducing queue lengths and vehicle delays. However, varying levels of automation from cautious to aggressive reveal complex trade-offs between operational ef�iciency and environmental impacts. On highways, automated HGVs demonstrate superior performance by reducing travel times and delays while increasing throughput compared to human-driven HGVs. These results underscore the operational bene�its of automated HGVs under diverse traf�ic conditionsand highlight their signi�icant implications for transportation planning and policy-making. This research contributes valuable insights into the integration of automated technologies in transportation systems, facilitating informed decision-making for stakeholders considering the adoption of these advancements in the current infrastructure.