Sustainable Mobility Strategies Research Articles

Evaluating the environmental benefits of autonomous vehicles in urban intersections: a microscopic simulation approach

This research delves into the environmental and energy implications of incorporating autonomous vehicles (AVs) into urban traffic systems, mainly focusing on emissions and fuel efficiency. The study employed PTV VISSIM simulation software to model a four-leg signalized intersection in Balgat, Ankara, under varying levels of AV integration and driving behaviors. A total of 21 scenarios were simulated, assessing the impact of cautious, normal, aggressive, and platooning AV behaviors on emissions of CO, NOx, and VOCs, as well as fuel consumption, across different traffic signal cycle durations. The results indicate that shorter signal cycle times consistently significantly reduce emissions and fuel consumption, irrespective of AV driving behavior. The most notable improvements were observed in platooning scenarios, attributed to their optimized traffic flow. In contrast, longer cycle times increased emissions and fuel consumption, especially with human-driven and cautious AVs, due to more frequent idling and stop-and-go traffic patterns. This study highlights the importance of refining AV driving algorithms and optimizing signal control systems to reduce environmental impacts and improve fuel efficiency in urban settings, providing crucial insights for advancing sustainable urban mobility and traffic management strategies.

Large eddy simulation of the dispersion of short duration emissions: Implications for the metrological evaluation of remote sensing devices for on-road emissions monitoring

Remote sensing techniques have emerged as valuable tools for characterizing pollutant emissions from large vehicle fleets and identifying high emitter single vehicles in real driving conditions. Nevertheless, the use of these systems for official emission control purposes by public administrations is an issue because the remote sensing devices must obtain official metrological certification, which currently lacks an international technical standard. The fluid dynamic study that we present demonstrates the promising potential of using pulsed synthetic reference plumes of known chemical composition in order to simulate exhaust emissions produced by combustion engine vehicles in a repetitive and controlled way. This scheme would facilitate the implementation of these complex metrological certification tests and drastically reduce the potential costs associated to these certifications and the emission of gases. In this paper, the atmospheric dispersion of the synthetic puff-like plumes after being released from a vehicle has been studied through fluid dynamic simulations, in order to identify their optimal usage conditions as reference materials. The simulations have allowed to study the evolution of two types of reference short plumes (puffs generated at 2 and 6 bars) from a vehicle at static and dynamic conditions. Results show that, in spite of the fast dispersion of these puffs, it is possible to accurately determine their chemical composition by optical techniques, for instance, by differential absorption spectroscopy. This opens the way for designing advanced and robust metrological evaluation procedures that could be the basis of a future technical standard for the certification of optical remote sensors of traffic emissions. This would allow future deployment of those certificated remote sensors on roads, contributing to a sustainable mobility and effective air pollution management strategies.

Predictive Artificial Intelligence Models for Energy Efficiency in Hybrid and Electric Vehicles: Analysis for Enna, Sicily

Developments in artificial intelligence techniques allow for an improvement in sustainable mobility strategies with particular reference to energy consumption estimates of electric vehicles (EVs). This research proposes a vehicle energy model developed on the basis of deep neural network (DNN) technology. This study also explores the potential application of the model developed for the movement data of new vehicles in the province of Enna, Sicily, Italy, which are characterized by numerous attractors and the increasing number of hybrid and electric cars circulating. The energy model for electric vehicles shows high accuracy and versatility, requiring vehicle velocity and acceleration as input data to predict energy consumption. This research article also provides recommendations for the energy modeling of electric vehicles and outlines additional steps for model development. The implemented methodological approach and its results can be used by transport decision-makers to plan new transport policies in Italian cities aimed at optimizing vehicle charging infrastructure. They can also help vehicle users accurately estimate energy consumption, generate maps, and identify locations with the highest energy consumption.

Assessing urban air pollution dynamics: the impact of traffic emissions and urban morphology in Lecce and Bari, Italy

Urban air pollution, exacerbated by vehicular emissions, poses a significant health threat, especially in densely populated areas. This study, part of the PNRR Italian National Center for Sustainable Mobility (MOST), aims to assess the impact of vehicular pollutants in urban environments. Focusing on Lecce and Bari (Italy), the research integrates data from dispersion models and meteorological analyses to evaluate pollutant concentrations. Preliminary analysis of eight urban areas in Lecce and six in Bari reveals trends in PM10 concentrations influenced by urban morphology and wind dynamics. These findings underscore the essential role of sustainable mobility strategies in mitigating urban air pollution and promoting healthier urban environments.

Cultural Routes Through the Perspective of Sustainable Mobility: A Critical Literature Review

ABSTRACTSustainable mobility strategies in the locale could facilitate cultural routes' social, economic, cultural, and environmental mandates. The purpose of this article is to explore the beneficial practices of sustainable mobility on cultural routes through a systematic literature review. The ultimate objective is to summon the sustainable mobility strategies implemented on cultural routes that could positively affect the economic, social, environmental, and cultural environments of a destination. A systematic literature review was initiated through the protocol of the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta‐Analyses methodology. The meta‐synthesis approach resulted in identifying five sustainable mobility policy recommendations suitable for cultural route development. Slow mobility practices, drive tourism, mobility infrastructures along cultural routes, accessibility into cultural routes, and urban mobility are fundamental for the creation of an efficient sustainable mobility plan to support cultural routes and achieve a sustainable tourism future for regions.

Assessing the viability of parking slot utilization as transhipment points for parcel carriers: a case study in Barcelona

AbstractThe measures proposed in the sustainable and smart mobility strategy developed by the European commission are crucial for achieving the environmental objectives for 2030. This strategy includes measures specifically aimed at reducing the impact of e-commerce distribution. One widely adopted strategy for mitigating the impact of e-commerce distribution is the establishment of urban consolidation centres (UCCs). While this infrastructure quickly demonstrates its environmental success in urban areas, achieving long-term economic sustainability proves challenging. In this paper, we introduce a methodology aimed at incentivizing parcel carriers to shift towards an economically feasible and environmentally sustainable distribution mode within urban areas by leveraging their own transhipment space. This methodology includes a mathematical program for determining the quantity and locations of parking slots, taking into account the number of parcels and transportation vehicles used. It also utilizes the Continuous Approximation technique to assess the transportation and environmental costs of the proposed solutions. The proposed methodology is implemented for the city of Barcelona, considering three different sizes of parcel carriers: the carrier handling the largest volume of parcels, the carrier handling the lowest volume of parcels, and an intermediate case. The vehicles considered for delivery from the transhipment points include vans, cargo bikes, and trolleys for distribution on foot. The results indicate that a significant reduction in both transport and environmental costs is achieved when using zero-emissions vehicles for delivery from transhipment points for any of the parcel carriers considered.

Core Indicators for Monitoring the Sustainable Urban Mobility Plan: A Case Study

The primary objective of this paper is to validate core indicators for monitoring Sustainable Urban Mobility Plans (SUMPs), focusing on the Functional Urban Area in Southern Poland. Given the high concentration of the population in urban areas within the European Union (EU)—currently at 70.9% and expected to rise to 83.7% by 2050—there is an urgent need to address associated challenges such as congestion and the significant contribution of cities to transport-related greenhouse gas emissions. Effective urban mobility planning is, therefore, more critical than ever. This study aims to provide a methodological framework for determining baseline values for four essential monitoring indicators: road safety, accessibility to public mass transit, greenhouse gas emissions, and air quality. These indicators are crucial for the European Commission’s evaluation of SUMPs. By focusing on these aspects, the research aims to enhance the effectiveness of urban mobility plans, ensuring they contribute meaningfully to the EU’s transport, climate, health, and social goals as outlined in the European Green Deal and the Sustainable and Smart Mobility Strategy.

Classification of Smart and Sustainable Urban Mobility

The main purpose of this article is to identify and classify smart and sustainable urban mobility solutions in the context of three narratives for sustainable mobility: electromobility, collective transport 2.0 and low-mobility societies. The research process of this study included the following methods: review of the literature, namely, strategic European documents, sustainable urban mobility plans in chosen cities and scientific publications addressing smart and sustainable mobility, case studies of selected cities in Europe and technology mapping to visualize the study results. The main result of this study is the review of various smart and sustainable urban solutions (SSUM) and their classification within the three narratives of electromobility, collective transport 2.0 and low-mobility societies. This article expands the concept of the three narratives for sustainable mobility with the aspect of smart mobility enriched with the variety of example solutions, case studies and good practices within mobility strategies in European cities. The study results can be useful for different stakeholders engaged in developing and introducing the sustainable mobility strategies in cities. Based on the catalogue of SSUM solutions, presented case studies and good practices, they may gain the necessary knowledge, consider the possible initiatives towards green transformation in cities and finally adjust them to the citizens’ need.

Education for sustainable mobility in Slovenia: Using gamification to influence the travel habits of children

The ever-increasing mobility of modern society has a number of negative effects on space, the environment, health and quality of life. It is therefore crucial to raise awareness of the importance of sustainable mobility, part of which is effective and comprehensive education of children. The article presents some key findings of the Sustainable Mobility in Preschools and Primary Schools project, carried out in the period 2019–2021. We investigated whether gamified activities can change students' travel habits and whether the change in travel habits is influenced by their age. The study is based on the survey data from 28,043 primary school students (grades 1–9) across 220 schools (77.7% in rural, 22.3% in urban settlements). Employing paired-samples t-tests and one-way analysis of variance, the study evaluated the impact of gamified activities on travel habits. The results show that children can significantly change their traveling habits with the help of gamification. Although the greatest change in travel habits occurred during the implementation of the activity, the results suggest that more lasting effects can also be achieved. Furthermore, younger participants displayed greater responsiveness to the gamified interventions compared to their older counterparts. This research enhances the corpus of knowledge pertaining to educational strategies for sustainable mobility by providing insights from one of the largest projects to investigate the influence of gamified activities on children's commuting habits.

Assessment of passenger safety risk level on the Transjakarta public transportation system

Passenger safety is a crucial factor in public transportation, especially now when people prefer using public transport due to its cost-effectiveness compared to private vehicles. This study aims to identify and assess the hazards that can occur in the passenger cabin of a bus and the procedures to be followed in the event of an accident. The assessment of passenger safety levels is conducted using the Hazard and Operability (HAZOP) and Hazard Identification (HIRADC) methods, which are designed to identify and evaluate these potential hazards. This research, after thorough examination and study, aims to establish new protocols that can further enhance passenger safety. With the actions suggested by the author to ward off all these potential hazards, it is hoped that the hazard level will be reduced from extreme to medium and so on. The research study, “Assessment of Passenger Safety Risk on the Transjakarta Public Transportation System,” has the potential to make a substantial contribution to sustainable transportation. In line with sustainable development goals, it immediately tackles safety concerns in the Transjakarta system, improving all-around safety and promoting public transportation over private vehicles. By lowering accident-related expenses, promoting inclusiveness, and enhancing community well-being, the study also indirectly increases resource efficiency. In essence, it contributes to a more secure, egalitarian, and sustainable urban transportation system while advancing Jakarta’s sustainable mobility strategy by placing safety first.

Public Transport Decarbonization: An Exploratory Approach to Bus Electrification

In 2020, only 0.9% of buses running in European Union countries were electric, with 93.5% still being diesel-powered. The Sustainable and Smart Mobility Strategy set out by the European Commission targets a reduction of at least 55% in greenhouse gas emissions by 2023 and the achievement of climate neutrality by 2050. These targets will only be met by a shift to sustainable mobility, which comprises the introduction of electric vehicles in cities and the adoption of battery electric vehicles (BEV) for urban public transport. Thus, a literature review on “electrification of bus fleets” was conducted, focusing on the practices adopted for the replacement of polluting buses with electric-powered ones. A total of 62 documents were included in the final investigation, and their results were used to conduct a SWOT analysis. It is possible to conclude that BEBs are an important asset for cities to decarbonize the transport sector and that they are more cost-effective than diesel buses. On the other hand, some attention needs to be given to the generation of energy that will feed the charging of batteries because the use of fossil fuel energy sources can jeopardize the environmental benefits of BEBs.

The use of Escape Room as an alternative teaching strategy for sustainable mobility

Gamification and Escape Rooms (ER) are becoming useful tools to encourage attitudinal and behavioural changes and increase learning. In the field of sustainable mobility their use is not widespread and is, in most cases, related to digital games and mobile applications aimed largely at an adult audience. In this study, we explore the potential of this tool to encourage the learning of sustainable mobility concepts in children between the ages of 10 and 13. The experience created, through the resolution of tests and puzzles, has led the 105 students involved to experience, in a playful environment, the formation and learning of sustainable mobility concepts. To measure learning, a pre- and post-experience questionnaire has been provided and the results have been classified with some characteristics of the students such as gender and mobility habits. The analysis of the questionnaire data using multinomial logit models has allowed us to determine which variables affect the probability of answering correctly before and after the experience. In the results obtained we can observe that gender, bicycle use, public transport or the presence of many cars in the family are relevant variables when it comes to having knowledge about mobility issues and that the ER experience has favored a change, although minimal, in the acquisition of sustainable mobility concepts.

INTERMODALITY BETWEEN ARTISANAL TRANSPORT AND PUBLIC TRANSPORT BY BUS IN GRAND LOME

Intermodal practices are related to the use of several distinct modes of transport during the same displacement. This study analyses the articulation between institutional transport insured by motorbike taxis and the Lomé Transport Company (Sotral) in Grand Lomé. In particular, it explores two intermodal practices between both actors, mainly the drawdown and broadcasting of Sotral users on/and from bus stopping, the main intermodality points after the bus stations in Grand Lomé. The methodology relies on a mixed approach, combining quantitative and qualitative methods for data collection and analysis. The first descriptive approach has allowed us to observe the phenomenon, to reinforce knowledge through the analysis of documents, and to obtain actors’ opinions. The second quantitative approach is based on the interviews carried out with drivers and motorbike taxi and bus users, the counting of broadcasting and drawdown modes at the stopping points, and the mapping of the study area as well as the Sotral network. The results show that the current facilities of Sotral bus stopping points do not encourage/promote the interaction and/or cohabitation between different modes of transport, such as motorbike taxis. These infrastructures are out of phase with the intermodal practices of the population of Grand Lomé, who use artisanal and structured public transport in their daily movements. In fact, motorbike taxis do not have a dedicated facility for drop-off/pick-up of passengers at the Sotral bus stopping points. The drawdown and broadcasting by these means of artisanal transport at bus stops are generally made on sidewalks and sometimes on roadways, which is a source of road insecurity. This failure leads to friction between Sotral and motorbike taxis on the use of facilities dedicated to Sotral buses, creating an absence of cohabitation between two main actors of mobility in Grand Lomé. An approach focused on the flexibility and efficiency of intermodal points or the connection between motorbike taxis and Sotral allows good coexistence and constitutes a component of a sustainable mobility strategy.

Electromobility and Renewable Energy Sources: Comparison of Attitudes and Infrastructure in Poland and Germany

In the face of global challenges related to climate change and sustainable development, comparing attitudes and infrastructure in the field of electromobility and renewable energy sources in different countries becomes crucial. The question of differences and similarities between Poland and Germany in these areas sheds light on the unique challenges and opportunities that the two countries present to each other. The aim of the study is to understand these dynamics, which can contribute to the shaping of more effective policies and strategies for green energy and sustainable mobility. This study was conducted through a review of Polish and foreign literature, the use of the method of tabular comparisons, and the analysis of a questionnaire that was used. These complex methods combined both quantitative and qualitative analysis, which allowed for an in-depth understanding and comparison of attitudes and infrastructure related to electromobility and renewable energy sources in Poland and Germany. The study revealed significant differences and similarities between Poland and Germany in terms of electromobility and renewable energy sources. Germany shows a higher level of urbanization, a higher share of electric car ownership, and better charging infrastructure, while in Poland there is a strong belief in the key role of renewable energy sources. These findings may have implications for future green energy initiatives and policies in both countries. The study presents a complex picture of electromobility and renewable energy sources in Poland and Germany, showing clear differences in awareness, infrastructure, and attitudes. Germany seems to be more advanced in these areas, while Poland shows a strong commitment to renewable energy sources. These conclusions do not exaggerate the differences, but underline the need for a case-by-case approach to green energy strategies in both countries.

European governments’ electromobility plans: an assessment with a focus on infrastructure targets and vehicle estimates until 2030

Electromobility offers great potentials to the decarbonisation of the transport sector. The purpose of this study is to analyse the development of electromobility in the European Union (EU) and in the United Kingdom (UK) by 2030. The study is based on the objectives provided by the EU Member States and UK in their national implementation reports, as foreseen by the Directive 2014/94/EU on the deployment of alternative fuels infrastructure. As the initial data coverage was not full, in order to produce a complete data set on registered electric vehicles and public recharging points, we estimated missing values with different statistical techniques and critical analysis of the initial data. A set of proposed indicators, namely the share of electric vehicles, the density of publicly accessible recharging points, the electric vehicles and recharging points annual growth rates and the sufficiency index, were averaged at EU27+UK level to depict the envisaged evolution of electromobility in the present decade. The results show that the objectives of the countries’ governments are overall less ambitious than the goals defined in the EU Green Deal for 2025 and in the Sustainable and Smart Mobility Strategy for 2030. Most of the indicators vary significantly in the 2016–2030 period, often revealing an increased divergence between the development of electric vehicles and public recharging points. Two policy implications are derived: (i) the use of a combined set of indicators to assess the governments’ electromobility plans could be pursued, while the ratio of ten electric vehicles per recharging point may no longer be a useful benchmark; and (ii) measures supporting the uptake of recharging infrastructure are still needed to mitigate the divergence with electric vehicles and to meet the ambitious objectives of the EU Green Deal and Sustainable and Smart Mobility Strategy.

Revolutionizing the road: How sustainable, autonomous, and connected vehicles are changing digital mobility business models

Major trends in the automotive industry are reconfiguring digital mobility business models. From a comprehensive, combined Dynamic Capabilities and Ecosystems approach, this study characterizes the digital mobility business models linked to sustainability, connectivity, and Autonomous Vehicles (AVs) adopted by four carmakers (Volkswagen, Stellantis, Toyota, and Honda). Results show that carmakers differ in their focal digital mobility value propositions, based mainly on the carmakers’ own mobility strategies. Volkswagen exhibits an integral proposition with personalized services, while Stellantis is focusing on electric mobility and its solutions, Toyota on autonomous and connectivity services, and Honda on a user-centric perspective via connected and shared mobility. The main sources of income are multiple personalized services linked to connectivity that specifically provide driver assistance, along with remote and digital platform services. Those carmakers pursuing sustainable, autonomous, or shared mobility strategies find their primary income sources in services like remote electric driving, autonomous door-to-door deliveries, and car-sharing. Such services are deployed not only due to technical resources, such as digital skills and data exchange systems, but primarily through organizational capabilities like a “team-player mentality” and a customer-focused vision. Finally, differences in sustainability have been highlighted, but in general terms, all manufacturers are striving to address the battery and charging-point issue through various business models to promote electric mobility. Carmakers are governing a digital mobility ecosystem configured by multiple service and technology providers that are developing transportation solutions.

Investigating Sustainability Indicators for Urban Road Network — A Methodical Review Literature

Transportation that is both socially and environmentally responsible is an important factor in climate change. However, urban sustainable mobility schemes have no universally accepted success criteria. Sustainability evaluation lacks a common language. This document groups sustainable mobility strategies to establish critical transport performance measures. Sustainable transportation trumps targets, criteria, and indicators. The following are the top priorities for urban multimodal sustainable transportation, in descending order: There are 13 social, 11 economic, and 9 environmental criteria. Each of the three basic criteria used most often in the study specifically addresses the environment. Since the literature’s attribution of criteria to sustainability elements is complex, it’s recommended to analyze their interrelationships. As previously demonstrated, small and medium-sized cities have a high sustainability value of in terms of population and urban area, but large cities can improve their sustainability by controlling urban sprawl and managing urban transportation demand with adequate public transportation. It is proposed that in the future, the interrelationships between the criteria be evaluated, as their allocation to the aspects of sustainability is ambiguous in the available literature. This article can assist mobility executives in making decisions about urban transportation concepts and project management. Making transportation more environmentally friendly is crucial to reducing climate change’s negative impacts.

A Mini-Review of the Environmental Footprint of Lithium-Ion Batteries for Electric Vehicles

The pressing requirement to combat climate change and reduce greenhouse gas emissions has catalyzed the development of sustainable mobility solutions. This review presents a detailed analysis of the environmental issues associated with traditional transportation systems, highlighting the significant role of sustainable mobility in addressing these challenges. Important strategies, including electric vehicles (EVs), mass transit, active transportation, and innovative mobility options, are examined. The review accentuates the necessity to cultivate more habitable communities, diminish emissions, enhance air quality, elevate energy efficiency, and contribute to a prosperous future through the adoption of sustainable mobility. The transition to sustainable transportation necessitates comprehensive policies, enabling regulations, and public participation. The creation and implementation of sustainable mobility strategies, the promotion of cleaner products and methods, and the fostering of collaboration across various sectors are pivotal roles for governments, legislators, and stakeholders. Additionally, public awareness campaigns and educational programs can drive behavioral changes and encourage the adoption of sustainable mobility solutions.

Optimising shared electric mobility hubs: Insights from performance analysis and factors influencing riding demand

In order to decarbonise the transport networks, systemic change is needed. One manifestation of this transformation is shared electric mobility, seeking to curtail car usage and ownership. This current case study aims to measure and optimise the operational performance of shared electric mobility hubs (eHUBs). From the performance results of eHUBs, one can get helpful insights to develop appropriate future planning and management policies for improving the transport chain. Incorporating data from September 2021 to October 2022, this research developed a novel dynamic two-stage data envelopment analysis (DEA) framework to assess the performance of the eHUB network in Inverness, Scotland. In the first stage, the DEA model computes relative efficiency scores related to the operational performance of the stations. The second stage focuses on network analysis and examining the factors that may influence the high or low obtained performance scores. Scrupulous analysis shows that the population in the catchment area of the eHUBs and the weather conditions (specifically, temperature) are among the most important factors influencing riding demand. The study also finds a weak association between eHUBs efficiency and proximity to public transport stops, suggesting that electric-assist bikes (e-bikes, pedelecs) may not strongly complement public transport, unlike bike-sharing systems. It indicates that e-bikes serve rather as a standalone mode for longer journeys. The findings of the case study can be used to improve sustainable mobility strategies, particularly related to e-bikes in other cities and urban areas.

Simulation of the Progress of the Decarbonization Process in Poland’s Road Transport Sector

In the years ahead, the majority of the EU member states will be implementing their energy and climate plans. These plans are aimed at fulfilling obligations related to the strategy for the Sustainable and Smart Mobility Strategy and the “Fit for 55” package. The European Commission has presented highly challenging proposals for the decarbonization of the transport sector through electrification and support for innovation. The decarbonization of transport will not be possible without cooperation and mutual understanding between manufacturers, suppliers, and customers, or without proper organization of the transport process itself. High-emission means of transport must be replaced with low-emission ones. In the EU, road transport generates 70% of all transport emissions. There are few scalable decarbonization opportunities in the transport sector. Various kinds of solutions should be promoted, yet at the same time, it is imperative to analyze the current situation and forecast desirable potential future outcomes. By employing optimization theory tools, specifically the SOLVER add-in—an Excel-based optimization tool—the optimum structure of the stock of road transport vehicles in Poland’s commercial road transport sector was searched for. Several research hypotheses were formulated, primarily focusing on the potential for electric vehicles to reduce emissions significantly. These findings suggest a promising outlook for this transition, with particular implications for decision-makers in the field of shaping transport policy. As a result of the conducted analyses and simulations, the hypothesis—that the application of selected elements of optimization theory tools allows us to determine the optimum stock structure of the Polish road transport sector in terms of propulsion system type (emission performance) in the context of pollutant emission targets set for the sector resulting from the EU’s climate policy targets, the European Green Deal, and the EU’s transport policy in terms of decarbonization, taking into account determinants and constraints included in the analysis—was confirmed. An important finding and result is the statement that, in its current state, the Polish road transport sector is not ready for the challenges related to the new goals of climate policy, the European Green Deal, and EU transport policy in the context of decarbonization.