platooning

Platooning is a method in which two or more motor vehicles travel closely together in a single lane, with automated systems coordinating acceleration, braking, and spacing. The lead vehicle sets speed, and following vehicles maintain a precise gap to form a convoy. The concept is most often studied for highway use and is commonly associated with freight trucking, though passenger-car platooning is also under investigation.

Operation relies on sensors and communications: vehicle-to-vehicle (V2V) or vehicle-to-everything (V2X) using DSRC or cellular networks (C-V2X); radar, lidar, and cameras; and actuators in each vehicle. The lead vehicle uses adaptive cruise control, and followers use cooperative adaptive cruise control to maintain a constant, short distance. The system enables rapid, coordinated braking and acceleration and may manage lane-keeping and merging where possible.

Benefits include reduced aerodynamic drag for trailing vehicles, leading to lower fuel consumption and emissions, as well as higher highway capacity, smoother traffic flow, and reduced driver workload thanks to automation. Safety gains are cited due to coordinated braking and shorter reaction times.

Platoons vary in size from three to five vehicles, with common freight configurations being three to five trucks. The technology is most mature for highway environments and is being tested in mixed-traffic scenarios in several regions.

Challenges include regulatory and liability questions, cybersecurity, interoperability among manufacturers, reliability under adverse weather, and the need for standardized communication protocols. Public infrastructure and roadside systems may also be required to maximize benefits. Widespread deployment awaits policy development and validation.

Numerous pilots and field tests have occurred in Europe, North America, and parts of Asia, with trials conducted by vehicle manufacturers and suppliers. Platooning remains at the demonstration and early commercial stage, with ongoing research into reliability, safety, and business models.