Field operational testing of ECO-approach technology at a fixed-time signalized intersection

As part of a number of Intelligent Transportation (ITS) applications aimed at providing an environmental benefit, eco-approach technology is one that is feasible in the near-term. An eco-approach application uses Signal Phase and Timing (SPaT) and intersection map information of signalized intersections to provide drivers with recommendations in order to encourage “green” driving while approaching, passing through, and departing the intersections. Upon receiving SPaT information, invehicle systems calculate and provide speed advice to the driver, allowing the driver to adapt the vehicle´s speed to pass through the upcoming signal on green or to decelerate to a stop in the most eco-friendly manner. Eco-approach methods have been proposed and simulated showing promising results. In this study, both simulation experimentation and field operational testing have been carried out to demonstrate the eco-approach application and to quantify its potential fuel and carbon dioxide (CO₂) savings. Furthermore, it has been shown that a communication platform based on a 4G/LTE network link and a cloud-based server infrastructure is effective and sufficient for this kind of application. It was found in both the simulation experiment and the field operational testing that on average 14% fuel and CO₂ savings can be achieved.