Traffic light priority for trams in warsaw as a tool for transport policy and reduction of energy consumption

Abstract

The article presents an analysis of priority solutions for trams at a selected sequence of intersections in Warsaw (Poland). An analysis of the literature has shown the topicality of this issue. A computer simulation model of a coordinated sequence of intersections was constructed. Three test scenarios were designed: the existing control system, the new coordinated fixed-time control system, and the adaptive control system with active priority. In the simulation process, detailed travel characteristics of trams and other traffic participants in a selected section were obtained for the three varying scenarios. Electric energy consumption for traction needs and pollutant emissions was then estimated for each of the variants. It was concluded that for the analyzed configuration, implementation of the adaptive priority will result in a reduction of tram time losses by up to 25%, a reduction in energy consumption by up to 23%, and a reduction in the emission of pollutants from individual vehicles by up to 3% in relation to the original variant. The conducted research may be the basis for a comprehensive method of assessing the effectiveness of applying the adaptative priority when designing new tramway lines and modernizing the existing ones.