Smart transportation is a thing now and IoT in transportation is what makes it possible. IoV (Internet of Vehicles), an IoT offshoot, is enabling connected cars, environment-aware vehicles capable of sharing in-vehicle data, the surrounding data to an external network, and vice-versa. It allows an exchange of data between the vehicle and the surroundings via the use of wireless network technologies such as Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, GPS, etc. The trend to choose a connected car over a traditional car is due to several reasons, the top most being a sense of security and ease. This is the time of autonomous vehicles and people don’t want to risk their lives with compromised security features or lack thereof.
Bluetooth, BLE, RFID, Zigbee, UWB, and Wi-Fi are some of the wireless network technologies that are driving IoT applications in vehicles. As the number of sensors in a vehicle is forecasted to reach over 200 sensors per vehicle in 2023, an intra-vehicle network architecture and ECU (Electrical Control Unit) need to be designed to perform such large-scale sensing operations and these wireless standards play a great role.
Internet of Vehicles (IoV) is a combination of Internet of Things (IoT) devices, network architecture, wireless network standards, and gateways enabling comprehensive data collection data sharing, and data integration in an intelligent transport system.
In an intelligent transport system, when a vehicle is deployed on a road, IoV allows point-to-point visibility and complete awareness of its surroundings, leading to a safe and comfortable driving experience. This also forms the basis of autonomous vehicles or self-driving cars which greatly relies on surrounding awareness and artificial intelligence.
Let’s see the top 5 applications of IoT in transportation to form better opinions on connected cars and the future of transportation:
5 Uses of IoT in Transportation
The Internet of Things (IoT) is a sort of intelligent device that uses sensors, wireless network standards, and gateways to enable wireless data collection, data sharing, and integration of data in an intelligent transport system. Since IoT has revolutionized various sectors already, transportation is no exception. With the integration of IoT technology, the transportation industry has witnessed significant advancements, leading to improved safety, efficiency, as well as sustainability.
Internet of Vehicles (IoV)
Internet of Vehicles (IoV) is an advanced concept that connects vehicles, infrastructure, and the internet. The main purpose of IoV is to enable seamless communication between vehicles and their surroundings by integrating IoT technology into vehicles. It enables real-time information exchange, such as traffic conditions, traffic signal timings, and parking availability, empowering drivers to make informed decisions and choose the most efficient routes. Thus, IoV enhances traffic management, reduces accidents, and improves overall transportation efficiency in an intelligent transport system.
Connected cars are vehicles equipped with internet connectivity and sensors that enable communication with their surroundings. With the use of IoT, vehicles collect and share real-time data, enhancing driver experience and safety. Various IoT sensors and in-vehicle connectivity allow these cars to access traffic updates, weather information, and route optimization suggestions, leading to reduced congestion and improved fuel efficiency. Connected cars also enable remote monitoring and diagnostics, assisting in preventive maintenance and reducing breakdown incidents which significantly improves passenger safety and leads to better driving experiences.
Autonomous Vehicles
Autonomous vehicles, also known as self-driving cars, are a significant innovation in the transportation industry and this is only possible due to industry 4.0 technologies in vehicle manufacturing. These vehicles rely on IoT sensors, artificial intelligence, and machine learning algorithms to navigate without human intervention. When Autonomous cars are on roads, IoT enables these autonomous vehicles to gather and process data from various sources, including sensors, cameras, and GPS in real time to make informed decisions. Without IoT, autonomous vehicles would not be able to communicate with other vehicles and infrastructure leading to compromised road safety and potential collisions with other vehicles on roads.
Vehicle-to-Vehicle (V2V) Communication
Vehicle-to-vehicle (V2V) communication enables vehicles to exchange information with each other, creating a network of interconnected cars. Using IoT, vehicles can share data on speed, direction, and location, and anticipate and avoid potential accidents. For example, if a car detects a sudden brake application, it can instantly notify nearby vehicles to prevent rear-end collisions.
IoT-enabled V2V communication also enables cooperative adaptive cruise control, where vehicles maintain safe distances automatically, reducing congestion and increasing traffic flow.
Vehicle-to-Road Infrastructure (V2I) and Vehicle-to-Internet (V2I) Connectivity
Vehicle-to-Road Infrastructure (V2I) and Vehicle-to-Internet (V2I) Connectivity involve the exchange of information between vehicles and road infrastructure or the internet. This includes integrating IoT into traffic management systems, traffic lights, and road signs allowing transportation authorities to collect real-time data on traffic flow, congestion, and road conditions. Such information can be shared with vehicles, allowing drivers to make informed decisions and adjust their routes accordingly. More importantly, V2I and V2I connectivity facilitate the implementation of smart parking systems, reducing congestion and enabling efficient parking space utilization.
To conclude, the applications of IoT in transportation have transformed the way we travel, making it safer, more efficient, and more sustainable. Connected cars, Internet of Vehicles (IoV), autonomous vehicles, Vehicle-to-Vehicle (V2V) communication, and Vehicle-to-Road Infrastructure (V2I) and Vehicle-to-Internet (V2I) connectivity have revolutionized the transportation industry, creating intelligent transport system. In the next few years, the integration of IoT in transportation will pave the way for seamless mobility, reduced congestion, and enhanced safety for all road users.
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