Over 55% of the world’s population now lives in urban areas—a figure projected to hit 68% by 2050. This growing population is placing immense strain on existing transportation infrastructure, demanding smarter, more sustainable, and more efficient solutions. Fortunately, smart technologies are revolutionizing urban mobility, making transportation faster, cleaner, and more efficient.
Smart technologies align directly with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 11, which aims to make cities inclusive, safe, resilient, and sustainable. Below, we dive into the key components of smart technologies in urban transportation, the specific technologies in place, and the problems they address.
Key Components of Smart Mobility
At the heart of urban mobility lie the following components, each playing a pivotal role in redefining transport.
Autonomous Systems
Autonomous vehicles/self-driving cars optimize routes, minimize human error, and enhance road safety. These vehicles use sensors, AI, and advanced software to navigate roads with minimal or no human intervention, resulting in increased safety and efficiency. Companies like Tesla and Waymo are at the forefront of developing such vehicles to revolutionize transport.
Real-Time Data Analytics
Transport systems generate vast amounts of data that can inform dynamic decisions. Information like traffic patterns and commuter behavior can be used to adjust traffic lights, provide en_roure rerouting, and provide users with up-to-date travel information. In turn, vehicles won’t have to move unnecessarily and urban centres will experience reduced congestion and lower CO₂ emissions.
Connected Vehicles
Cars are becoming increasingly connected, communicating with each other and with traffic infrastructure. Vehicle-to-everything (V2X) technology enables cars to receive real-time updates about traffic, road conditions, and potential hazards. This connectivity provides data that can be used to identify safety hazards and develop new technologies to prevent accidents.
Smart Traffic Management Systems
Traffic systems use AI, IoT sensors, and cameras to monitor traffic and optimize traffic flow in real time. Systems such as adaptive traffic signal control reduce waiting times at intersections while prioritising emergency vehicles. Furthermore, AI can manage pedestrian flow at stations and stops, reducing overcrowding and streamlining boarding and alighting.
Smart Technologies Powering Urban Transportation
The power behind the components discussed above lies in the technologies that drive them.
The Internet of Things (IoT)
IoT connects components like traffic lights, parking sensors, and vehicles, allowing these systems to collect and share real-time data. Examples of IoT in use are traffic monitoring through sensors embedded in roads, GPS tracking for fleet management, and smart traffic lights. In Copenhagen, IoT-enabled smart traffic signals are being used to reduce the number of stops for cyclists by 10%, reducing the incidence of accidents.
AI & Machine Learning
AI algorithms process vast amounts of data to identify patterns and predict traffic congestion. They also power autonomous vehicles and enable predictive maintenance for vehicles and infrastructure. Machine learning models help in route optimization and demand forecasting for public transport. A good example of AI in play is Transport for London (TfL) using AI to adjust train speed and save on energy without affecting travel times.
Big Data & Real-Time Analytics
Big data platforms aggregate information from multiple sources—mobile apps, GPS devices, and transport sensors. This information allows for fleet management, resource allocation, and real-time adjustments to traffic. Cities can also leverage bi data analytics to address issues that hinder successful mobility measures. For example, mobile phones and GPS data can be used to identify high traffic areas that need better infrastructure.
Blockchain
Blockchain offers secure, transparent, and tamper-proof transportation systems. It can streamline ticketing systems, track vehicle maintenance, and enable secure data sharing. Blockchain also comes in handy to manage electric vehicle (EV) charging payments and verify the authenticity of traffic data.
The Challenges Addressed by Smart Urban Mobility
Integrating smart technologies in transportation networks addresses several pressing challenges.
Traffic Congestion
Traffic congestion is not just a daily annoyance but a significant economic drain. Smart technologies understand and respond to real-time traffic conditions. For instance, Intelligent Traffic Management Systems (ITMS) leverage cameras, sensors, and data analytics to monitor traffic and adjust traffic signal timings. Adaptive traffic lights, too, improve throughput by changing their patterns based on actual traffic rather than fixed schedules.
Air Pollution
Pollution is a major public health concern in urban areas, with transportation being a significant contributor. Smart urban mobility offers pathways to cleaner air by promoting electric mobility, optimizing vehicle flow, and intelligent fleet management. For instance, electric vehicles reduce air pollution by producing zero tailpipe emissions. Additionally, a reduction in traffic congestion translates to lower emissions from idling vehicles.
High Energy Consumption
The transportation sector is a significant consumer of energy, primarily from fossil fuels. Smart technologies decouple transportation from unsustainable energy sources through efficient routing, facilitated shared mobility, and optimized operations. For instance, dynamic route adjustments in public transport minimize empty runs and unnecessary energy usage.
Accidents
Road accidents result in significant loss of life and economic burden. Technologies like smart infrastructure for vulnerable road users and advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) create a safer transportation environment. ADAS technologies could prevent up to 37% of all passenger vehicle crashes. Additionally, features like adaptive lane departure warnings and automatic emergency braking increase the safety of road users.
The Road Ahead
The transition to smart urban mobility depends on more than just technology—it requires behavioral shifts. The authorities in charge of urban areas must engage citizens through educational forums, campaigns, and provision of options for smart urban mobility. Citizens, too, need to embrace data-driven services and increased adoption of sustainable options.
The long-term vision is smart cities where mobility is seamless, green, and inclusive. Picture a city where traffic flows like a well-coordinated performance, electric shuttles move silently, and every citizen has access to affordable transport. This vision, rooted in the UN’s SDG 11, promises cities that thrive without compromising the planet or leaving anyone behind.
Conclusion
The integration of smart technologies into transportation networks will turn urban chaos into a model of efficiency. By addressing key transportation challenges and promoting sustainability, smart mobility paves the way for more livable cities. Companies like Geviton are playing a crucial role in this transformation by providing cutting-edge hardware and IoT infrastructure.
