Modelling and Assessment towards the impacts of Transport Automation and electrification on Road Infrastructure (MATARI)

Research Project, 2025 – 2029

Transport automation and electrification will significantly alter traffic distribution, spatiotemporal vehicle loads, and driving dynamics on road segments, impacting road systems in terms of degradation patterns, maintenance needs, alignment requirements, and roadside infrastructure. While some literature discusses the effects of automation and electrification on road infrastructure, comprehensive analytical modelling and assessment remain underexplored, particularly in Swedish and Nordic contexts. This project brings together interdisciplinary road and traffic engineering experts from five institutions to provide a comprehensive and quantitative analysis of how future transport automation and electrification will impact road infrastructure. The objectives include: 1) Developing modelling and analytical methods to assess the impacts of AVs and EVs on spatiotemporal vehicle load profiles, road degradation, and maintenance needs across different road types; 2) Producing quantitative analyses of the new requirements for roadside infrastructure due to AVs and EVs in various road scenarios; 3) Conduct systematic impact evaluation and propose preparation strategies to address these identified needs. The project aims to enhance research competence in understanding and preparing road infrastructure for future transport automation and electrification through innovative methodologies and analyses. This knowledge will support road owners, infrastructure managers, planners, and other stakeholders in making cost-effective and sustainable adaptations to accommodate future transport systems.