Intelligent Traffic Information Should Be Shared

The Evolution of Intelligent Transportation Systems

Intelligent transportation systems have come a long way since their inception in the 1980s. Initially, the focus was on basic traffic management and vehicle monitoring. However, with advancements in technology, the scope of ITS has expanded significantly.

Government Initiatives and Policies

Several government departments have recognized the importance of ITS. For instance, the Ministry of Transport in China emphasized the role of information technology in transforming traffic management during a 2010 meeting in Wuhan. This meeting underscored the need for integrating IT to promote vehicle networking and improve overall traffic systems.

In 2010 and 2011, eight academicians presented strategic reports to the State Council, advocating for the development of a national car mobile Internet of Things (IoT). These reports received significant attention, with the Prime Minister approving the recommendations. The focus was on incorporating top-level design into national scientific and technological projects.

Key Policies and Regulations

The Ministry of Transport, Ministry of Public Security, State Administration of Work Safety, and Ministry of Industry jointly issued a notice to strengthen the supervision of road transport vehicle dynamics. This notice mandated the installation of satellite positioning systems in high-risk vehicles, adhering to specific technical requirements.

The Intersection of IoT and Smart Vehicles

Vehicle networking is a crucial intersection between IoT and smart vehicles. This industry chain benefits various sectors, including:

• Sensing Equipment: Devices that collect real-time data from vehicles and infrastructure.
• Network Communications: Systems that facilitate data transmission between vehicles and traffic management centers.
• Automotive Electronics: Advanced electronic systems integrated into vehicles for better performance and safety.
• Dynamic Information Services: Real-time traffic updates and navigation assistance.
• Terminal Computing: Onboard computing systems that process and analyze data.

The Role of Cloud Computing

Despite the advancements, some argue that cloud computing is unnecessary for ITS. This skepticism stems from the fact that ITS concepts were introduced in the 1980s, a time when the information society and data fusion were not prevalent. However, modern ITS can leverage cloud computing to handle vast amounts of data efficiently.

Data Challenges and Solutions

One of the significant challenges in ITS is the collection and utilization of traffic data. For example, during the Beijing Olympic Games, substantial investments were made in traffic systems, yet the data collected was limited to major roads, leaving out smaller streets and paths. This lack of comprehensive data hinders the development of dynamic services.

To address this, ITS must focus on:

• Dynamic Data Collection: Ensuring data is collected from all possible sources, including minor roads and paths.
• Data Fusion and Mining: Integrating and analyzing data from various sources to provide actionable insights.
• Real-Time Updates: Offering real-time traffic information to improve navigation and reduce congestion.

The Future of Intelligent Transportation Systems

The future of ITS lies in the seamless integration of various technologies, including IoT, cloud computing, and advanced data analytics. By addressing current challenges and leveraging modern technologies, ITS can significantly improve traffic management and enhance the overall driving experience.

Interesting Statistics

• Global ITS Market: The global ITS market is expected to reach $63.66 billion by 2026, growing at a CAGR of 10.5% from 2019 to 2026 (Allied Market Research).
• Traffic Congestion Costs: Traffic congestion costs the U.S. economy approximately $87 billion annually, with the average driver spending 97 hours in traffic jams (INRIX).
• Reduction in Accidents: Implementing ITS can reduce traffic accidents by up to 30%, according to a study by the European Commission (European Commission).

Conclusion

Intelligent transportation systems hold immense potential to transform traffic management and improve road safety. By addressing data challenges and leveraging modern technologies, ITS can provide dynamic, real-time solutions that benefit both drivers and traffic authorities. The future of transportation lies in the seamless integration of these advanced systems, paving the way for smarter, safer roads.

This article highlights the importance of sharing intelligent traffic information and the potential benefits of adopting advanced transportation systems. By understanding the challenges and leveraging modern technologies, we can pave the way for a more efficient and safer transportation future.