In order to overcome the shortcomings of current car-following models,a novel optimal velocity ( desired velocity) function is proposed and an improved car-following dynamic model is established based on the“stimulusresponse” pattern. Then,the stability of this model is analyzed by using the Lyapunov stability theory on motion. Finally,the parameter calibration and application verification of the improved model are performed by using the
measured data. The results show that the theoretical results of the improved model accord well with the experimental data in terms of starting acceleration,approximately uniform speed and deceleration,without unrealistic acceleration which occurs in other models.