Mobility of the Future: Driving Interoperability to Build Smarter Cities

Currently, more than 1,200 systems are applied in the transport industry to manage daily traffic, most commonly each with isolated data and a static approach. They are rarely based on the use of open system platforms and typically function as stand-alone devices in the Urban, Interurban or Parking domains. This is due to the lack of interoperability of these systems and so-called vendor lock-ins, which prevents authorities from managing mobility as an integrated function across various mobility domains. A holistic overview of the actual traffic situation is therefore not possible. This creates a complex working environment for traffic managers and traffic systems cannot keep pace with developments in the internet of things (IoT). Decisions have to be made without access to vital traffic data such as the number of vulnerable road users compared to car traffic, if vehicles are clogging roads because they can't find a parking space, or if heavy vehicles could be redirected to avoid dense traffic areas. The result is congested highways, poor air quality, an increased number of accidents as well as a decline in the quality of life for many citizens.

In today’s rapidly evolving urban landscape, interoperability in traffic management systems is therefore becoming increasingly crucial. We sat down with Steve Penn, Connected, Cooperative, and Automated Mobility (CCAM) Business Owner in SWARCO, to discuss the transformative potential of interoperability and how it is shaping the future of urban transportation:

Interoperability of systems – what does it mean?

Define interoperability in the context of traffic management systems - What does it really mean?

Steve Penn: Interoperability, simply put, is the ability of different systems, technologies, and organizations to work together seamlessly. In traffic management, this means that traffic lights, sensors, vehicles, and even public transportation systems can communicate and share data in real-time. This exchange of information is the foundation for smarter, more efficient and safer transportation networks.

What are the core technologies that make interoperability possible in the CCAM world?

Steve Penn: We're talking about a combination of advanced communication devices called Road Side Units (RSU), wireless communication protocols like ITS-G5, C-V2X and 5G, cloud computing for data storage and processing, and standardized data formats that allow different systems to "understand" each other.

How does this real-time data exchange help with the ever-present problem of traffic congestion?

Steve Penn: Interoperability allows us to create a dynamic picture of traffic conditions based on data coming from various sources in near real-time. We can identify congestion hotspots, optimize traffic signal timings, and inform the drivers about dangers and bottlenecks in the transportation systems likes work zones or traffic jams to improve safety and efficiency of the road network. This responsiveness significantly reduces congestion, emissions and travel times.

Contribution of interoperability to address pain points (traffic flow, air pollution, vulnerable road users)

Interconnected systems make traffic management more effective. What are the specific impacts on traffic flow, air pollution and the safety of vulnerable road users like pedestrians and cyclists?

Steve Penn: It's a multi-pronged benefit. Improved traffic flow means less stop-and-go driving, which directly translates to reduced emissions and cleaner air. Interoperable systems can also detect and prioritize designated vehicles or road user groups like pedestrians and cyclists at intersections, making our streets safer for everyone.

Elaborate on solutions for each of these pain points – what can we do?

Steve Penn: We're seeing smart traffic lights that adjust their timing based on real-time traffic data, adaptive speed limits that change based on road conditions and vehicle-to-infrastructure communication that warns drivers about obstacles in their path.

Are there examples of successful implementations?

Steve Penn: Several cities have made great strides. For instance, Helmond in Netherlands, has an integrated system that connects traffic lights, buses, and emergency vehicles. Next would be the city of Tampere in Finland, which has implemented intelligent traffic light controllers that use real-time data to optimize traffic flow and reduce congestion also by granting priority to designated fleet.

Benefits beyond traffic management

It's clear that interoperability offers benefits beyond just smoother traffic. But how does it contribute to broader societal goals?

Steve Penn: Interoperable systems are a cornerstone of smarter cities. They not only improve transportation but also enhance overall urban livability. Think about reduced commute times leading to more time for family and leisure, or businesses benefiting from efficient logistics and delivery routes. It's a ripple effect that positively impacts economic productivity and quality of life.

Are there also indirect benefits, perhaps related to well-being?

Steve Penn: Yes, absolutely. Reduced congestion means less stress for commuters. Improved air quality has direct health benefits. Safer streets encourage active transportation like walking and cycling, which contributes to physical and mental well-being. It's a holistic improvement, and now we're on the cusp of a transportation revolution. 

The transformative potential of interoperability is very multifaceted, and it will definitely shape the future of transportation. In the coming years, it is expected to see more connected and automated vehicles on our roads seamlessly interacting with smart infrastructure. This will lead to safer, more efficient and more sustainable transportation networks. Furthermore we see strong government support for CCAM initiatives and a growing ecosystem of companies developing innovative solutions. However, there are still challenges to overcome. 

You want to know if Europe is ready for the widespread adoption of CCAM? Stay tuned and find out more about the challenges and how to solve them soon!

SWARCO. The Better Way. Every Day.