New Generic Multiclass Kinematic Wave Traffic Flow Model

Fastlane, a generic multiclass kinematic wave traffic flow model, is proposed and analyzed. The model takes into account heterogeneity of driver-vehicle units with respect to speed and space occupancy: long vehicles with large headways (e.g., trucks) take more space than short vehicles with short headways (e.g., passenger cars). What makes the model unique is that it considers that this effect is larger when traffic volume is greater. This state-dependent space occupancy is reflected in dynamic passenger car equivalent values. The resulting model is shown to satisfy important requirements, such as providing a unique solution and being anisotropic. Simulations compare Fastlane to other multi-class models. The characteristic velocity is shown to depend on the truck share, which is one of the main consequences of the modeling approach.