Cities are using smart traffic technology to reduce energy waste and increase road safety as traffic congestion in cities becomes an increasing problem. This helps passengers and drivers save time, cuts emissions and delays in traffic.

The technology behind it is based on hardware and software. The first is the subcomponent which executes, while the second is the command and control centre. Both are complemented by advanced technology for processing and sensing which include ANPR (automotive license plate technologytraffic.com/2021/07/08/generated-post-2 recognition) which collects data on vehicles’ movements and is able to detect traffic signs.

Depending on the type of solution, smart traffic lights are able to process data on-device or transfer it to a cloud. The latter is more sophisticated modeling and predictive analysis that can reduce traffic congestion and to harmonize public transportation schedules. According to Carnegie Mellon University, this can cut the average travel time by 25 percent, wait times for signal signals are reduced by 40%, and emissions are reduced by 20%.

A well-designed traffic light system, in addition to reducing the delays of traffic signals, can also improve the flow of pedestrians as well as of micromobility vehicles like ebikes or e-scooters. This is due to the fact that they’re not able to follow the traditional preemption rules. In London, for example crashes on e-scooters jumped by 2800% in the first half of 2021, and therefore it is crucial to factor them into traffic light control.