Eco-friendly platooning operation algorithm of the electric vehicles

Platooning is one of the promising technologies that maximizes the power efficiency of electric vehicles by decreasing the distances between the vehicles. Along with the development of autonomous driving technology, platooning is expected to be commercialized. Recent studies on the operation of platooning focused on power-efficient maintenance of platooning. However, power-efficient operation strategy is also needed for practical applications. Therefore, this study deals with platooning operations that can maximize the power efficiency of electric vehicles in various operational situations. In order to derive the operation method, a mathematical model structured with an objective function that minimizes power consumption is developed. To derive the solution of the mathematical model, a hybrid genetic algorithm is applied. The numerical experiments on four different operational situations are performed to verify the validity of the model and the solution procedure. The four situations consider overall situation that can happen during the platooning stage. The stages are formation, disassembly, join and breakaway of vehicles of platoon. Those four situations are decided upon since they can represent the general situation that can happen during platooning. As a result, the power-efficient driving patterns of electric vehicles are identified. After the development of electric and systematic technology, operational technology for platooning will collaborate for the further improvement. Therefore, throughout consideration of the formation of platooning, technology will expand the sustainability of technological development.