Everything is getting smarter these days, including traffic lights. The American traffic lights which have remained virtually unchanged for over 100 years are now being dependent on machine learning. This means a more efficient, safer and greener transportation world. Traffic signal preemption technology for instance can assist drivers in avoiding an injury-causing collision with pedestrians. A system that incorporates traffic lights and e-bike/scooter sensors will automatically time stops so that they align with commuters’ schedules.

IoT sensors and connectivity technologies enable smarter traffic control systems that maximize energy efficiency by optimizing signal timings based upon actual conditions. The data gathered by cameras and sensors can be processed on the device or transmitted to an infrastructure for traffic management, where it is integrated into AI-based algorithms. The results are more precise analysis and predictive models to avoid congestion, coordinate public transportation schedules, and reduce carbon emissions.

These technologies are transforming urban transportation systems. Smart sensors for e-bikes or scooters, for example can detect and communicate the location of personal vehicles shared by others to make ride-sharing more efficient. Micromobility payment systems, on the other hand permit parking on the street or road tolls without the requirement for changing the correct amount.

IoT smart traffic technology can also boost the efficiency of public transportation by allowing commuters to track trams and buses in real-time using live tracking apps. And intelligent intersection technology can prioritize emergency vehicles, allowing them to get to their destination quicker – an innovation that has already dramatically reduced the number traffic demand matrix of crashes in certain cities.