A Multifaceted Analysis of Intelligent Vehicle Route Optimization

In the constantly changing realm of logistics and transportation management, the incorporation of Information and Communication Technology (ICT) has catalyzed transformative paradigm shifts in the approach and resolution of Vehicle Route Optimization (VRO). The current scientometric research paper embarks on a comprehensive exploration of the scholarly endeavors acquired from the Scopus database in the realm of ICT-assisted vehicle route optimization, spanning 2014–2023. The scientometric implications of the article encompass several pivotal dimensions, including publication patterns, (author, country, institution) co-authorship, geographical distribution, Document Co-citation network Analysis (DCA) and top articles based on betweenness centrality corresponding to each opted category of the current knowledge domain. A meticulous examination of the analyses revealed a significant research impact in the pervasive computing and communication technology categories. The co-authorship analysis presenting the interconnectedness of collaborative efforts across countries, authors, and institutions highlights the authors and universities of China and the United States as dominant players in the domain. The DCA elucidates research themes, including intelligent transportation systems, unmanned aerial vehicle-based wireless sensor networks, electric vehicle-based sustainable VRO, and vehicular ad-hoc networks. These themes underscore the current research trajectories within the field. Notably, quantum computing and blockchain emerged as prominent technologies. Overall, the study unveils the transformative impact of ICT on VRO, highlighting the key themes, future research directions and a collaborative research community poised for substantial innovation in this area of research.

I. Introduction

In the 21st century, the world has witnessed an unprecedented boom in technology, fundamentally reshaping industries and driving advancements in every facet of human life. Among the myriad applications of modern technology, the utilization of ICT has emerged as a transformative force in optimizing various processes, enhancing productivity, and promoting sustainability. One area where the fusion of ICT has demonstrated remarkable potential is in Vehicle Route Optimization (VRO) – a critical aspect of transportation and logistics management that profoundly impacts businesses, economies, and the environment. From local deliveries to global supply chains, efficient vehicle route planning and optimization have become essential to ensure the smooth functioning of economies and reduce the adverse effects of transportation on the environment. With the rise of ICT and the advent of powerful computational algorithms, the transportation industry is undergoing a seismic shift towards dynamic and intelligent route optimization systems. ICT incorporates Artificial Intelligence (AI), big data analytics, mobile technology, communication systems, global positioning systems, and various VRO algorithms that enhance the overall operational efficiency of the vehicle navigation system.