Determinación de parámetros contextuales en el diseño geométrico vial de los vehículos livianos en Ecuador

Abstract

Abstract: Geometric road design in Ecuador continues to rely on foreign standards that do not reflect the country s current vehicle fleet or driver anthropometry. This study applies a data-driven quantitative approach to update two key geometric design parameters: representative vehicle dimensions and driver eye height for light vehicles. A database comprising 1170 vehicle models across 36 categories was developed using 2023 national registration records and manufacturer specifications. Driver eye height was estimated using two complementary methods: (1) combining seat height, ground clearance and Ecuador-specific anthropometric data disaggregated by ethnic group and sex; and (2) virtually assigning anthropometric profiles to the national fleet. The results indicate that the average driver eye height for light vehicles is 0.95 m, which is lower than current Ecuadorian design assumptions (1.15 m) and AASHTO standards (1.08 m). Heavy-vehicle estimates (1.70 m) also differ from conventional reference values. These findings reveal a mismatch between existing design assumptions and real-world conditions, highlighting the need for updated geometric design parameters that better reflect Ecuador s fleet composition and population characteristics.