Automated Ride Share Selection Using Vehicular Area Networks

This paper considers the possible application of ride share services in vehicular area networks. We propose a system architecture and protocol for this specific application using the vehicle to vehicle (V2V) and vehicle to road (V2R) communications. We present how the system would integrate with the current VANET infrastructure and the On-Board Unit, and present algorithms for selection of ride share options. We also present simulation scenarios and theoretical analysis of the likelihood of finding an acceptable ride share option using the proposed system, and analyze the expected network overhead caused by the system.