Application of Gravitational-Benchmark Model for Road-Transport Energy Evaluation: Experimental Results and Discussions

In this study, a comprehensive justification of the practical applicability and the workability of an existing generalized criterion model was carried out. The model provides a gravity-based assessment of energy efficiency and energy benchmarking of road-transport objects. According to the model, a typical road vehicle of classification group B was tested in real road conditions, applying a common driving style. For the transport process investigated, the experimental efficiency coefficient does not exceed 0.1%, and the relative energy consumption is over 1100 relative units. A previously developed simulation model was verified. The verification shows a very high accuracy of the simulation results with an average relative error of 1.87 %. The obtained results were interpreted and, based on the interpretation, three general recommendations are formulated related to the elimination of the usage of some types of passenger cars and to the significant limitation of the application of the objects from classification group Al (goods vehicles). The passenger transport technologies should be completely rethought and gradually replaced with innovative alternatives.