Cooperative Content Downloading in Hybrid VANETs: 3G/4G or RSUs Downloading?

In hybrid vehicular ad hoc networks (VANETs), content data can be downloaded either from 3G/4G cellular networks or from roadside units (RSUs) of VANETs. When downloading via cellular networks, the delay is low but the cost is expensive. While, downloading via VANETs, the cost is nearly free. However, due to the unique characteristics of VANETs, such as frequent disruptions, high speed mobility and low contact rate, which result in huge download delay. In this paper, we study how to minimize the cost of downloading under the hybrid vehicular ad hoc networks and meet the requirement of the vehicular users. We proposed a basic meet algorithm (BMA) and a heuristic algorithmltime slot algorithm (TSA). The performance of BMA and TSA are evaluated by the different environments. Extensive simulations show that the performance