Tech
November 6, 2024
Much like pretty much every other industry, transportation is undergoing a massive transformation as a result of some really important advancements in artificial intelligence (AI) technology.
Indeed, not only does AI have really useful applications in operational aspects of business (by means of automating certain tasks, for instance), it’s also being used to contribute advanced technology to less obvious industries like transport.
From self-driving cars to predictive maintenance systems, AI is helping make the transportation industry smarter, safer and more efficient.
Ways AI Is Contributing to the Transportation
Transportation, when considered as an industry, requires not only advanced mechanical technology to help it progress, but other types of tech that can contribute to logistics and management.
Here are some of the most important ways in which AI is being used to improve the transportation industry.
Self-Driving and Autonomous Vehicles
Self-driving cars used to be a thing of sci-fi movies, but now, as a result of the use of AI technology, it’s very much a reality. With companies like Tesla leading the charge, engineers are using complex algorithms, machine learning and real-time data processing to create cars that are able to not only drive, but also make decisions and even navigate without human intervention.
Now, self-driving cars are not only cool because they don’t require humans to be at the wheel, they also offer a few other benefits, including enhanced safety due to the reduction of human error.
Autonomous vehicles make use of cameras, sensors and radar tech to detect obstacles, understand traffic patterns and even read road signs. In fact, autonomous trucks in particular are beginning to impact the logistics industry, creating potential for long-haul transportation to be cheap, faster and more efficient.
Managing Traffic
Arguably the most influential way in which AI is transforming the transportation industry is by means of helping to manage traffic. Traditional traffic management systems are based on predetermined schedules and human observation which, unsurprisingly, tends to result in delays and congestion.
Using AI, however, means that systems are able to process vast amounts of data (from things like social media feeds, cameras, sensors and more) in order to make changes to things like traffic lights and signals in real-time.
But, it’s not only about using AI tech to deal with and manage problems. It can also help predict things like traffic patterns, accidents or even bottlenecks. This is super useful in terms of being able to recommend alternative routes for drivers which is not only helpful for them but also helps reduce the amount of traffic overall (or at least stop it from getting worse).
There are actually some cities around the world that have implemented AI-powered traffic control systems – places like Los Angeles and Singapore – in order to try and reduce congestion and allow traffic to flow smoothly, ultimately reducing both environmental impact and commuting time.
Fleet Management and Predictive Management
Prevention is always better than cure, and the same goes for the transportation sector – predictive maintenance is absolutely crucial in reducing downtime and ensuring vehicle safety. AI can be used to monitor specific vehicle parameters and ultimately predict when failures are expected to occur.
Essentially, sensors are used to collect data, and that data is used to identify when parts are likely to fail. Thus, the problematic parts in question can be repaired and replaced before anything bad happens.
The primary intention behind predictive maintenance is to be able to enhance fleet reliability and also reduce the risk of failures and essentially road accidents that may be caused by mechanical failures.
Using AI in Public Transportation
The way in which AI is being used in public transportation is making it more efficient and passenger-friendly. Indeed, some developed cities around the world are actually using AI to analyse patterns of use which contributes to effective scheduling that is based on real-time demand. For instance, AI can determine when it needs to dispatch extra buses or trains during peak hours so that there are always adequate levels of service.
The other thing that AI is helping with is passenger safety and security. Things like video analytics tech and facial recognition can be used in transit systems in order to be able to detect any odd or suspicious behaviour.
With AI technology, navigation is becoming more accurate and responsive than ever before. AI algorithms are being used to provide real-time route recommendations that take into account things like accidents, traffic and road closures.
Apps like Google Maps and Waze learn from users’ driving patterns, environmental factors and road conditions which helps improve both usability and accuracy too.
