The goal of this work is to compute the eco-driving cycles for vehicles equipped with internal combustion engines by using a genetic algorithm (GA) with a focus on reducing energy consumption. The proposed GA-based optimization method uses an optimal control problem (OCP), which is framed considering both fuel consumption and driver comfort in the cost function formulation with the support of a tunable weight factor to enhance the overall performance of the algorithm. The results and functioning of the optimization algorithm are analyzed with several widely used standard driving cycles and a simulated real-world driving cycle. For the selected optimal weight factor, the simulation results show that an average reduction of eight percent in fuel consumption is achieved. The results of parallelization in computing the cost function indicates that the computational time required by the optimization algorithm is reduced based on the hardware used.

The purpose of this work is to study the kinematics and injury of child pillion passenger from motorcycle-to-car crash tests. Two crash tests for rear and front child pillions were set up. The kinematics of dummies were analysed from accelerometer data and high speed camera pictures. The kinematics and injury mechanisms of the child passenger from both tests are significantly different. For the rear child pillion test, the rider impacted the car before the child passenger. Both rider and child were ejected upward. The child’s head motion was curvilinear towards the car structure. This results in severe head injury due to high HIC. The child sitting at front translated in the longitudinal axis of the motorcycle and impacted the car before the rider. The child’s torso strongly hit to the handlebar first then head hit the car. This results in low value of HIC. The child’s upper-body including neck were compressed between the car and the rider’s torso leading to high risk of severe thorax and neck injuries. The results reveal that the child sitting behind the rider has higher risk of severe head injury while the child sitting before the rider has higher risk of thorax and neck injuries.

Rear-end collision is one of the top accidents for the motorcycle in ASEAN countries because the motorcyclists always keep their following distances too short. There are no specific safe distances suggested for motorcycle especially in an emergency braking situation. This study proposed a model based on the piecewise linear model of motorcycle braking deceleration profile and kinematic equations for calculating the stopping distances in a worst-case scenario. The calculated results were compared to the braking experiment and test results from other studies. The information from this study can be useful to relevant authorities such as driving institutes and enforcement agencies in order to setup a safety measure for the motorcyclists.

A Tuk-tuk, also known as a motorized tricycle, is a three-wheeled vehicle with wheels symmetrically arranged in the longitudinal driving direction. Compared to four-wheeled vehicles, tuk-tuks have less stability. Classical Tuk-tuks typically have a metal occupant compartment without doors, resulting in direct contact between occupants and the metal structure. In tropical countries with heavy rainfall, flooded roads are common. This study proposes technical requirements specific to electric Tuk-tuks, which are gaining popularity in Thailand. Experimental tests focused on braking performance, rollover stability, and electric safety prevention. The tests addressed four aspects: brake performance, parking capability, rollover stability, and electric isolation resistance during floods. These tests help manufacturers meet Thai safety standards. Results emphasize the importance of adhering to Tuk-tuk standards for vehicle performance and electric safety.