The calculation and distribution of CAV carbon emissions on urban transportation systems: A comparative analysis of renewable and non-renewable energy sources

When powered by electricity, Connected and Autonomous Vehicles (CAVs), an emerging mode of transportation, possess the capacity to reduce exhaust emissions greatly. However, accurately measuring carbon emissions in urban transportation remains a challenge, especially considering emissions from electricity generation and gasoline consumption. This paper proposes an innovative method for calculating CAVs' carbon emissions distribution, utilizing both renewable and non-renewable energy. The study employs SUMO, an agent-based simulation platform, to develop an intelligent driver model and cooperative adaptive cruise control modules, tracking vehicle movement behavior across various vehicle types, including Gasoline Vehicles (GVs), Electric Vehicles (EVs), Human-Driven Vehicles (HDVs), and CAVs. Subsequently, a lifecycle electric carbon emission model is constructed, integrating the energy consumption model of EVs with carbon emission factors of renewable and non-renewable energy. Visualization models are then developed to clarify the carbon emission distribution within the traffic network. A case study conducted in Suzhou, China validates the model, analyzing the spatiotemporal distribution of carbon emissions. Results show EVs can reduce carbon emissions by 70%–90 % compared to GVs on urban roads during rush hour, while CAVs can further reduce emissions by 35%–50 % compared to HDVs. Additionally, carbon emissions from non-renewable energy sources were found to exceed those from renewable sources.