Advancements in Connected and Autonomous Vehicles

Dear Colleagues,

Connected autonomous vehicles (CAVs) hold immense promise in revolutionizing transportation, offering benefits in energy efficiency, crash prevention, traffic management, etc. Through real-time data exchange, CAVs optimize routes and driving behavior, resulting in reduced fuel consumption and emissions, while their interconnectedness enables crash prediction and prevention, potentially saving countless lives. Furthermore, CAVs have the potential to alleviate traffic congestion by coordinating movement and streamlining traffic flow.

However, the realization of these advantages is not without its challenges. Ensuring the safety and security of CAVs is a top priority, as they are susceptible to cyberattacks, which could have catastrophic consequences. Rigorous testing and verification of autonomous driving algorithms are essential for guaranteeing their reliability and performance under diverse conditions. Moreover, the implementation of CAVs faces legal, regulatory, and ethical hurdles, necessitating the establishment of new standards and protocols for seamless integration into existing infrastructure. Another significant challenge lies in the readiness of the infrastructure to support CAVs effectively. Existing roads and transportation systems may require extensive upgrades and adaptations to accommodate the unique needs of CAVs. This includes the installation of smart sensors, communication networks, and the establishment of vehicle-to-infrastructure (V2I) communication capabilities. Additionally, ensuring interoperability among different CAV systems and infrastructure elements is crucial to achieving a cohesive and efficient transportation network.

In light of these challenges, this Special Issue welcomes researchers to contribute their valuable findings to address the multifaceted issues surrounding CAVs. Research focusing on security solutions, safety standards, testing methodologies, verification techniques, energy-efficient solutions, and infrastructure readiness will play a pivotal role in unlocking the full potential of CAVs. By surmounting these challenges, researchers can pave the way for a safer, more energy-efficient, and seamlessly integrated autonomous future in transportation.

Dr. Arman Sargolzaei
Guest Editor

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