A Rural Transport Implementation Index for Connected, Autonomous and Electric Vehicles

With connected, autonomous and electric vehicles (CAEV) developing rapidly, there is a need to better support their implementation into rural scenarios, where there are numerous transport challenges. The potential safety, efficiency and sustainability benefits of CAEVs could provide significant value for rural communities if implemented correctly. However, transport planner knowledge of CAEVs and their digital and physical infrastructure requirements in the UK is limited and, despite interest, there is little time or resources available to effectively explore rural CAEV implementation potential. This paper therefore describes the methodology behind, and development of, the CAEV Rural Transport Index (CARTI), based on existing literature and a combination of existing and developed indicators. The CARTI's purpose is to identify the levels of need, capacity and overall potential of different rural areas to support rural CAEV implementation. Application of the CARTI to several case study areas reveals a range of benefits, reviewed through workshops with local transport professionals. Ultimately, the CARTI is identified as a much-needed tool to support the implementation of CAEVs in rural areas, with potential for further development to establish it as a successful and long-term planning tool.