Bridging the Gap Between Theory and Implementation for CAV-Based Mixed Traffic Smoothing

In the last decade, dozens of algorithms have been published that rely on using individual automated vehicles (AVs) to smooth traffic flow, reducing congestion and emissions. However, none of these algorithms have been implemented on production vehicles, begging the question, “Why?” One possibility is that much of the AV-based traffic flow smoothing theory is based on simplistic traffic models that do not hold up to reality, while another possibility is that vehicle-level delays make these strategies impractical to implement. This project focuses on developing and validating advanced traffic-smoothing controllers for connected and automated vehicles (CAVs) to address critical safety and mobility challenges in mixed traffic environments. The research will address uncertainties in vehicle dynamics, actuation delays, and human compliance, leveraging high-resolution traffic data, cutting-edge simulation tools, and real-world testing on a state-of-the-art CAV platform at a professional test track in Indiana.

• Record URL:
  • https://ccat.umtri.umich.edu/research/minnesota/bridging-the-gap-between-theory-and-implementation-for-cav-based-mixed-traffic-smoothing/

Language

• English

Project

• Status: Active
• Funding: $213,738.00
• Contract Numbers:

  69A3552348305

• Sponsor Organizations:

  Office of the Assistant Secretary for Research and Technology

  University Transportation Centers Program
  Department of Transportation
  Washington, DC  United States  20590
• Managing Organizations:

  University of Michigan Transportation Research Institute

  2901 Baxter Road
  Ann Arbor, Michigan  United States  48109
• Project Managers:

  Bezzina, Debra

  Stearns, Amy

• Performing Organizations:

  University of Minnesota, Minneapolis

  Minneapolis, MN  United States  55455

  Purdue University, Lyles School of Civil Engineering

  550 Stadium Mall Drive
  West Lafayette, IN  United States  47907
• Principal Investigators:

  Stern, Raphael

  Wang, Ziran

• Start Date: 20251015
• Expected Completion Date: 20261015
• Actual Completion Date: 0
• USDOT Program: University Transportation Centers Program

Subject/Index Terms

• TRT Terms: Autonomous vehicles; Congestion management systems; Connected vehicles; Traffic calming; Traffic simulation; Uncertainty; Vehicle mix
• Subject Areas: Data and Information Technology; Highways; Operations and Traffic Management; Planning and Forecasting; Vehicles and Equipment;

Filing Info

• Accession Number: 01970963
• Record Type: Research project
• Source Agency: Center for Connected and Automated Transportation
• Contract Numbers: 69A3552348305
• Files: UTC, RIP
• Created Date: Nov 13 2025 2:56PM