Transactions on Transport Sciences 2024, 15(2)
Editorial
The current issue of the ToTS journal brings together a series of insightful studies that delve into various facets of traffic engineering, urban mobility, and sustainable transportation. The papers presented here not only expand the theoretical framework but also provide practical recommendations that can guide future urban planning and traffic management initiatives. Below, we summarize the key contributions of each study.
Dostál et al. from the Czech Technical University in Prague offer a comprehensive analysis of shared spaces in urban environments, focusing on Dolní Square in Odolená Voda town. Utilizing advanced surveillance technologies, the study identifies potential conflict zones and suggests strategic urban design alterations to enhance safety and accessibility. The proposed methodological framework aims to quantitatively evaluate shared spaces, promoting a design strategy that harmonizes pedestrian and vehicular needs. This research stands to significantly impact urban planning, emphasizing the integration of modern safety standards and pedestrian preferences into urban design.
Bulíček and Drdla from the University of Pardubice, Czech Republic, investigate the activities of drivers while waiting at traffic lights, a potential risk factor for traffic accidents. Based on a robust data collection from multiple cities, the study categorizes driver activities and assesses their frequency and impact on safety. Notably, 21% of drivers engage in attention-reducing activities, such as using cellular phones or eating. The authors recommend ergonomic vehicle designs and designated short-stop parking areas as pragmatic solutions to mitigate these risks, acknowledging the impracticality of completely prohibiting such activities.
Tottadi and Mehar from the National Institute of Technology, Warangal, India, present a comparative analysis of operating speed models on highways using Multiple Linear Regression (MLR) and Artificial Neural Networks (ANN). Their findings indicate that ANN models outperform MLR in predicting operating speeds on both curved and tangent sections. This research provides valuable tools for highway engineers, aiding in the establishment of posted speed limits and enhancing road safety through better-informed traffic management strategies.
Tan et al. from University Tunku Abdul Rahman, Malaysia, address the pressing issue of traffic-related noise pollution. Their study evaluates noise levels on key roads in Sungai Long and proposes mitigation measures, including prohibiting heavy vehicles and constructing noise barriers. The analysis demonstrates that while prohibiting heavy vehicles is cost-effective, noise barriers offer a long-term solution for significant noise reduction. This work underscores the importance of structured noise mitigation frameworks in urban planning.
Siahaan, Simamora, and Sitindaon from Indonesian St. Thomas Catholic University and Institut Teknologi Del investigate the factors influencing electric car adoption in Medan, Indonesia. Using an ordinal logistic regression model, the study identifies key socioeconomic and attitudinal variables that affect adoption intention. The findings suggest that middle-to-high income individuals are more likely to adopt electric vehicles, driven by factors such as car ownership and driving range. This research offers critical insights for policymakers aiming to promote sustainable transportation in developing urban contexts.
Samal, Mohanty, and Gorzelańczyk from KIIT University, India and Stanisław Staszic University, Poland, provide a thorough review of lane changing behavior, a critical aspect of traffic flow and safety. The paper examines psychological, cognitive, and socio-demographic influences on lane changes and reviews existing models and methodologies. The authors highlight the potential of advanced driver assistance systems and vehicle-to-vehicle communication in enhancing traffic management. This review serves as a valuable resource for future research and practical applications in traffic engineering.
Přikryl, Vahalík, and Poul from the CDV - Transport Research Centre, Czech Republic, explore the viability of a plug-in fuel cell electric vehicle (FCEV) optimized for the Czech Republic. Their analysis suggests that this hybrid powertrain, combining battery electric and fuel cell technologies, offers a balanced solution for energy efficiency, emission reduction, and operational economy. The study concludes that plug-in FCEVs can be a viable alternative to existing clean transport technologies, providing a significant step towards fossil-free transportation.
Each of these studies contributes to the evolving landscape of traffic engineering and sustainable transportation, offering innovative solutions and guiding future research and policy development. We hope this issue inspires continued exploration and implementation of these cutting-edge advancements.
Published: August 7, 2024 Show citation
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