Work

An Efficient Concept to Integrate Traffic Activity Dynamics into Fleet LCAs

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: This paper addresses the underrepresentation of traffic activity in Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) practice despite its critical influence on the energy and environmental footprint of both electrified and conventional vehicles. To bridge this gap, the paper proposes a new framework that enhances the integration of traffic dynamics into fleet LCAs while maintaining computational simplicity. The approach combines Macroscopic Fundamental Diagrams (MFDs), which estimate network-level traffic performance, with an average-speed-based emissions model to evaluate on-road energy use and emissions performance of traffic. This quantification is further extended by applying life cycle inventory emission factors to account for upstream and downstream impacts, including energy production, vehicle manufacturing, and end-of-life treatment. The framework is demonstrated through a case study involving urban traffic networks in Zurich and Thessaloniki. Results illustrate the method’s capacity to evaluate multiple vehicles within realistic flow scenarios and adaptability to variable traffic conditions, offering a practical and scalable tool for improved energy and environmental assessment of road transport fleets.

Source: Energies

DOI: 10.3390/en18195075

Authors: Sokratis Mamarikas, Zissis Samaras, Leonidas Ntziachristos

Institution: Aristotle University of Thessaloniki

Language: English

Topic: Vehicle emissions and performance

Subfield: Automotive Engineering

Field: Engineering

Domain: Physical Sciences

SDGs: Industry, innovation and infrastructure, Sustainable cities and communities, Climate action

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $3,137