The objective of this work is to evaluate the
fuel savings potential of semi-automated truck
platooning. Platooning involves reducing
aerodynamic drag by grouping vehicles together
and decreasing the distance between them through
the use of electronic coupling, which allows multiple
vehicles to accelerate or brake simultaneously.
The U.S. Department of Energy’s interest in
platooning stems from the opportunity to reduce
petroleum consumption. This work addresses the
need for data and analysis on what aspects of
operation can impact platooning savings and what
can be done to maximize the savings realized.