Linear Stability of Heterogeneous Traffic Flow Incorporating V2X Communication and Intraplatoon Spatial Distribution

This article provides a comprehensive analysis of the effects of connected and automated vehicles (CAVs) market penetration rate, spatial distribution, and V2X communication on the stability of heterogeneous traffic flow. We explore stability variations across different scenarios by developing a car-following model and analyzing stability conditions. Our findings show that increasing CAV market penetration enhances traffic flow stability by expanding the stable speed range and reducing the unstable speed range. Additionally, we investigate the influence of CAV spatial distribution and V2X communication on traffic flow stability. The results reveal that forming CAV platoons reduces intervehicle interference, thus improving stability. Furthermore, V2X communication enhances traffic flow stability by enabling more accurate prediction and control of car-following behaviors. We also examine the impact of cyberattacks on heterogeneous traffic flow, finding that such attacks cause unnecessary accelerations, decelerations, and delays, thereby increasing accident risks. Finally, we acknowledge the study’s limitations and propose future research directions, including nonlinear stability analysis of heterogeneous traffic flow and developing effective control strategies to mitigate the adverse effects of cyberattacks.