Modelling and analysis of virtual coupling for increasing service performance in the case of single-track rail lines

Smart and green mobility systems are key factors for the sustainability of our cities which are experiencing increasingly growing density conditions. The goal is to make public and sharing transport systems more attractive than private vehicles, thus reducing congestion levels as well as air and noise pollution in favour of the quality of life in our urban and suburban areas. In this context, the proposed paper presents a simulation-based methodology for increasing the efficiency level of railway operations, through the implementation of virtual coupling systems, intending to lead the modal split towards a more sustainable scenario. To show the feasibility of the proposed approach, it has been applied in the case of a real regional rail line. Results confirm the benefits of the adoption of such systems on the attractiveness levels by showing an increase in carrying capacity with a related reduction in user waiting times.