- by Kevin Simpson
Technology to beat gridlock
09 April 2003: A 'Smart Moving Conference' in Birmingham has been told that technology could help to tackle road congestion on a number of fronts.
Edmund King of the RAC said that despite improvements to public transport, cars will remain the dominant and preferred mode of personal transport for the next 50 years, although the way in which they are used might be radically different.
In the future, devices such as the UCAT device (smart card, mobile phone, internet console and GPS system all rolled into one) will also help to ease delays.
Driver information systems must provide real-time, reliable data on incidents, road works, likely journey times and public transport alternatives allowing drivers to make informed and timely decisions on their routes and modal choice.
Greater use of home computers, data technology, telecommunications and developing information networks will allow motorists to work, shop and hold meetings from home rather than clogging up the roads trying to get there.
Better and more reliable traffic information that drivers know that they can trust will come via internet, phone and radio waves - enabling them to make travel choices in advance of leaving home. In future it may also be possible to pre-book a slot in a pool or shared company vehicle and a space on the road network.
Technology will have to be widely utilised in any demand management schemes - particularly to ensure the fair and efficient operation of potential traffic congestion charging areas.
Some form of road charging may be required on the most congested 10% of the network to stop it getting worse. Where it is proposed, however, it will only be acceptable if introduced alongside road improvements, better traffic management and offset by fuel duty reductions and enhanced public transport.
©2003 irishcar.com