It is the intention of the EU DGVII `DIATS' project (Deployment of Inter Urban ATT Test Scenarios) to provide a series of scenarios for "decision makers" which could be used to test the maximum effectiveness and range of inter- and peri-urban measures. These will include both currently achievable infrastructure based systems, such as ramp metering and variable speed limits, and the more `high-tech' in-vehicle based driving aids, such as Intelligent Cruise Control and `convoy driving' strategies. This paper presents recent results from this project, in particular highlighting its relevance to the operation of the UK interurban road system. Results presented are drawn from a `Delphi' study based on responses obtained from over 70 manufacturers, government representatives, owner/operators and scientists, where an assessment has been produced of the barriers remaining before these systems may be deployed, such as availability of funding, suitability of technology and safety implications. These findings are then considered in the context of models of interurban congestion, based on both current figures and likely future trends, to produce a range of potential deployment plans for the UK that could be adopted according to strategic decisions at governmental and industrial levels. Lastly, an indication is made as to how these options will be further detailed and specified as the project continues, and how these initial findings may be viewed in the context of our findings for other major EU nations.
Abstract