Comparison of driving patterns using dimensionless numbers

Abstract

The following study explores alternatives for comparing driving patterns across various regions or drivers to identify strategies to reduce fuel consumption and the emissions of greenhouse gases and air pollutants from the transport sector. The method implied isolates the factors influencing driving patterns such as external, human, and technological through the application of dimensionless numbers, an innovative methodology proposed to assess the energy use in vehicles. Aiming to demonstrate the applicability of the methodologies, the daily operative conditions of samples of vehicles were observed and registered second by second with the same technology in three very diverse regions for a prolonged period (>2.5 years). Results show actionable insights that could be used by governmental authorities interested in improving transport infrastructure and fleet managers interested in reducing fuel consumption.