Digital twin and security solutions for intelligent transportation systems

Intelligent Transportation Systems (ITS) are poised to transform the transportation landscape by enabling seamless integration of technologies, enhancing road safety, and optimizing traffic flow. To fully realize the potential of ITS, it is crucial to address the challenges of cybersecurity and sustainability. This thesis explores innovative approaches to integrate security measures and sustainability strategies into vehicular networks. First, a comprehensive review of digital twin (DT) technologies in the context of ITS is presented. This review highlights the potential of digital twins to enhance cybersecurity by providing a holistic view of vehicular networks and enabling proactive mitigation of threats. Next, a novel Intrusion Detection System (IDS) is proposed for Vehicular Ad Hoc Networks (VANETs). The IDS leverages decision tree-based machine learning techniques to detect anomalies and identify potential intrusions with high accuracy. To address sustainability challenges, an optimization framework for electric vehicle (EV) routing in logistics operations is presented. The framework minimizes charging/discharging costs while considering the shortest path for each EV, optimizing route planning, and contributing to reduced environmental impact. Real-world case studies validate the effectiveness of the proposed optimization method. Finally, a simulation-based study on traffic networks and communication protocols is conducted. The study employs a hybrid methodology that integrates SUMO, OMNeT++, and VEINS frameworks to model and simulate interactions within the dynamic urban setting of Bologna, Italy. Focusing on attacks against VANET networks through IEEE 802.11p protocol / WAVE standard messages, the simulation-based approach enhances vehicular network security and contributes to sustainability by ensuring the reliability and efficiency of communication protocols. In conclusion, the contributions of this thesis provide a strong foundation for future research in ITS. We can create a more secure, efficient, and sustainable transportation ecosystem by applying DT framework on ITS and integrating cybersecurity measures and sustainability strategies.