An improved car-following model considering forecast speed difference with delay time

Abstract

It is well known that drivers can adjust their speeds based on forecasted traffic states in driving process, and this forecast behavior affects traffic features. In this paper, an improved car-following model with delay time, by incorporating the behavior of forecast speed difference, is proposed from the full velocity difference model. Its linear steady condition is deduced. Numerical simulations indicate that values of acceleration and deceleration of new model are more reasonable than those of the original model in starting and braking processes, and the kinematic wave speed is proper. Moreover, the behavior of forecast speed difference is found not only to smoothen the traffic fluctuation, but also to reduce the energy consumption in stable and unstable cases.