Emerging technologies that could have major impacts on transportation

A recent report by US Volpe experts identifies eleven emerging technologies and innovative applications that may have significant impacts on our transportation systems within three to five years. The report, 2015 OST-R Transportation Technology Scan: A Look Ahead, identifies technological advances and innovative concepts, along with their associated benefits, challenges and risks that could fundamentally alter the transportation landscape:
January 29, 2016 Read time: 2 mins
RSS

A recent report by US 8306 Volpe experts identifies eleven emerging technologies and innovative applications that may have significant impacts on our transportation systems within three to five years.

The report, 2015 OST-R Transportation Technology Scan: A Look Ahead, identifies technological advances and innovative concepts, along with their associated benefits, challenges and risks that could fundamentally alter the transportation landscape:
These include: Additive manufacturing (3D printing); Advanced analytics and machine learning; Automated vehicles; Hyperloop; Infrastructure inspection robots; Innovative concepts for protecting pedestrians, cyclists and motorcyclists; The Internet of Things; Materials science in infrastructure; On-demand ride services (transportation network companies); Unmanned aircraft systems (UAS); Wireless power transfer.

“Advances in just the past decade have dramatically changed the way Americans travel and deliver goods, and the pace of change is something we cannot dictate,” writes US DOT assistant secretary for research and technology Gregory Winfree in the report’s foreword.

“This is why we must be proactive and look to new technologies that have clear applications for transportation. However, new technologies can also introduce new risks, and we must anticipate the full range of potential impacts.”

The report also notes external factors that could maximise or hinder potential, such as the growing role of data and connectivity, changes to the workforce, and the uncertain impact of these technologies on travel behaviour.

Location Based Systems

Related Content

  • Blockchain: the next big thing for ITS? Really?
    October 8, 2018
    Everyone’s heard of blockchain – but most people are less sure about what it really is, and how it might be used in transportation. Andrew Williams peers into cyberspace to find some answers. A growing number of organisations in the ITS industry are exploring how blockchain technology could be used for ITS and mobility applications. So, what exactly is blockchain technology? What are the key current and potential applications in the mobility and ITS sector? And what practical benefits might it bring?
    Read More
  • Tolling faces up to unprecedented challenge
    October 9, 2020
    The next five years are likely to see a number of changes – but the tolling industry will be equal to them, thinks the IBTTA’s Bill Cramer. The best minds in the business are on the case…
    Read More
  • SES America recognised for overall excellence in manufacturing
    March 17, 2015
    Dynamic message signs (DMS) supplier SES America was recently named winner in the Overall Excellence for Manufacturers category of Providence Business News’ 2015 Manufacturing Awards Program. The company was recognised for its accomplishments and commitment to manufacturing success in the Rhode Island. “The entire SESA team is proud to take part in what the media calls the ‘renaissance in American manufacturing’ and to be recognised for our overall performance,” said Philippe Perut, president of SES America
    Read More
  • Making cars safer for vulnerable road users
    June 2, 2016
    Richard Cuerden considers measures to improve the safety of vulnerable road users. The competitive nature of the car market has seen an increase in protection for those travelling inside the vehicle and this is reflected in the casualty statistics -but the same does not apply to those outside the vehicle. And with current societal trends such as ageing populations, an increasing number of pedestrians and cyclists encouraged by environmental policies, this is an area that authorities such as the European Uni
    Read More

Highlighted Content