Evaluating Driver Perception of Truck Platoon Speeds During Intersection Approaches

Truck platoons are groups of trucks traveling in a tight single-file formation to reduce aerodynamic drag. Because air resistance accounts for a substantial portion of truck fuel consumption, platooning can improve efficiency and reduce fuel use. However, little is known about how drivers of light vehicles perceive truck platoons. In this study, participants distinguished between properly functioning platoons traveling at 50 mph and malfunctioning platoons traveling at 55 mph. Platoon configurations varied in both the number of trucks and intervehicle spacing. Results showed that platoons with shorter gaps were more accurately identified as hazardous, while larger platoons enabled faster recognition of malfunctioning behavior. Detecting unsafe platoons near intersections is important because it influences drivers’ hazard assessments and responses. Early recognition of abnormal speeds provides more time to reevaluate traffic conditions, anticipate unexpected movements, and adjust behavior accordingly to maintain safety margins and support safer intersection decision making overall today.