Stochastic Optimization for Energy-Efficient Cooperative Platooning

Following another vehicle can be automated by controlling the inter-vehicle distance using cooperative adaptive cruise control systems (CACC). On the one hand, this distance should be as small as possible in order to reduce aerodynamic drag which decreases fuel consumption. On the other hand, a minimal spacing can increase the probability and severity of collisions. In order to ensure a satisfying performance in the presence of various information topologies and relevant uncertainties such as errors in data transmission or extreme maneuvers of the lead vehicle, a stochastic optimization approach is suggested and demonstrated for a preexisting CACC scheme. Simulation experiments show the performance and the potential energy savings achieved by the robust calibration of the controller.