SmartCitiesWorld Weekly Update - 8 September 2023

The future of urban transportation is taking shape, guided by technology, innovation, and strategic partnerships. This week, we're shining a light on two compelling initiatives that offer a glimpse into the future of transport, and the work that will be required to get there, from urging government action to fostering successful collaborations in connected and autonomous vehicles (CAVs).

Our first story comes from the UK, where the transport tech sector is championing the cause of future mobility by urging the Prime Minister to progress a Future Transport Bill. Its inclusion in the King's Speech, should it pass into law, could unlock a new era of sustainable and connected urban transportation, with the transport tech industry saying it must include legislation for cutting-edge technologies such as autonomous vehicles, while supporting reform for public transport ticketing, and ensuring a long-term future for UK micromobility. Signatories of an open letter to the Prime Minister argue that the new legislation would see the UK cement its place as a world leader in transport technology.

From government action to collaboration, across the Atlantic, a partnership between TalTech – Tallinn University of Technology and Florida Polytechnic University is bearing fruit in the realm of connected and autonomous vehicles. Through joint research and development efforts, these institutions are pushing the boundaries of CAV technology. Their work encompasses everything from enhancing vehicle connectivity to improving the safety and efficiency of autonomous systems. Such collaborations between academia and industry are instrumental in propelling the evolution of urban transportation, and in this instance has led to the creation of a new commercial enterprise, know as Auvetech.

The future of transport in cities is an exciting frontier, where innovation and collaboration hold the keys to progress. This week's stories underscore the critical role of both government support and research partnerships in shaping tomorrow's urban mobility landscape. As cities grapple with issues like congestion, pollution, and accessibility, they are turning to technology and forward-thinking policies for solutions. Cities, and those innovating for cities, are not just envisioning but actively building a more connected, sustainable, and efficient future.

Luke Antoniou , Senior editor, SmartCitiesWorld.net

Here is a round up of the headline stories from the past week:

1. The City of Philadelphia offers free travel benefits to its employees
2. City and Port of Seattle announce new partnership to rejuvenate Elliott Bay waterfront
3. SPECIAL REPORT: Furthering the role of local leadership in US climate action
4. TfWM bus network protected until 2025 after ￡40m investment
5. Are you going to Smart City Expo, Barcelona in Nov 2023?
6. Transport tech sector urges UK prime minister to move forward with future transport bill
7. Vision and delivery plan for Glasgow’s Golden Z approved
8. TalTech and Florida Poly CAVs partnership proves fruitful
9. MMT and Masabi launch new account-based ticketing system
10. Gloucestershire park and ride 5G rollout improves passenger experience
11. Mayor launches direct comms with New Yorkers via SMS
12. AIIB and Bloomberg Philanthropies to scale clean energy deployment in Asia
13. VivaCity’s AI-powered sensors to help improve air quality in Sheffield
14. MTA tap and go payment system OMNY launched at Roosevelt Island tramway
15. First 5G standalone network for Denmark
16. New study to determine the best way to influence micromobility behaviour
17. The City of Phoenix seeks citizen input to advance open data
18. AI algorithm predicts optimal electric charging deployments
19. Coventry “supercharges” active and public transport
20. Dublin launches AR map as part of smart tourism strategy