A passenger-oriented optimization model for implementing energy-saving strategies in railway contexts

Rail and metro systems are characterized by high-performing and environmentally friendly features that make them a crucial factor for driving modal split towards public transport modes, thus reducing private car use and related externalities (such as air and noise pollution, traffic congestion and accidents). Within this framework, the implementation of suitable energy-saving policies, allowing to reduce energy consumption, but, at the same time, preserving timetable stability and passengers’ satisfaction, may turn out to be imperative. In particular, this study aims to develop an analytical framework for properly supporting the implementation of eco-driving strategies in a passenger-oriented perspective. An application to a rail line in southern Italy is performed so as to demonstrate the usefulness of the proposed approach in determining the optimal compromise between energy reductions and travel time increases.