Directions for next generation microscopic traffic simulation modeling tool under the IntelliDrive environment

Microscopic traffic simulation models have been widely accepted in the evaluations of new treatments in the surface transportation system. These include new highway, lane usage (e.g., high occupancy vehicle lane or high occupancy toll lane), speed limits (e.g., variable speed limit, and uniform or differential speed limits), etc. Additional needs such as considering lateral movements within the lane made researchers develop plug-in modules on the basis of application programming interface (API). With a recent initiation of IntelliDrive or cooperative vehicle infrastructure system, a traffic simulation research community has faced to consider directions for the future microscopic traffic simulation modeling tools. This paper conducted comprehensive assessments on the existing practices in the microscopic simulation modeling and future modeling needs, and recommended that the development of traffic simulation model independent plug-in modules. Additional recommendations including short-term and long-term approaches were discussed.