April ITS News
Posted on 04.10.14

Traffic technology continues to evolve at a rapid pace, with new developments influencing everything from vehicles to the infrastructure itself. Here are some recent videos and news articles on traffic technology to keep you up-to-date on the latest trends and developments.

Car-to-Car Communication the Next Big Innovation?

Spurred on by developments in WiFi communications, vehicle-to-vehicle (v2v) communication systems offer dramatic safety benefits for marginal costs. New studies have prompted the US Department of Transportation to propose regulations requiring v2v technology in all new vehicles.

 

Inrix Scorecard Shows USA Congestion Grew at Three Times the GDP

Inrix’s seventh annual Traffic Scorecard Report provides statistics that highlight the growing need for intelligent transportation solutions and connected car technologies. During 2013, traffic congestion increased in 61 metropolitan areas, a significant shift from 2012, when only six cities experienced an increase.

 

ITS America’s Leadership Circle Chair Testifies before House T&I Committee

Peter Sweatman, Chairman of the ITS America Leadership Circle, testified before the House T&I Committee on the importance of federal surface transportation safety grants. He also highlighted the need for collaboration between the government and private sector in developing new technologies.

 

TxDOT Uses New Bluetooth and WiFi system at Port Aransas Ferry

This spring break season, the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) is using Bluetooth and WiFi technology to calculate ferry wait times at the busy Port Aransas ferry crossing near Corpus Christi, Texas. Using variable message signs (VMS) and signals from Bluetooth- and WiFi-enabled sensors, they hope to help travelers make more informed decisions about alternate routes during peak travel times.

 

GHSA Report Shows Drop in Pedestrian Deaths after Three-Year Rise

A new report issued by the Governor’s Highway Safety Association (GHSA) revealed a decline in pedestrian deaths for the first time in nearly five years. The report highlights the importance of reducing distractions and speeding near areas of heavy pedestrian traffic.

 

Nissan Develops ‘Smart’ Rearview Mirror

Nissan recently unveiled a ‘Smart’ rearview mirror that uses a high-resolution camera and an LCD screen to provide increased visibility and awareness of traffic conditions. The mirror also allows the driver to switch between an LCD monitor and a conventional mirror.