L’Internet des objets dans les transports publics : avantages et impacts

By akshita 16 Min Read

Hello and welcome to our blog post dedicated to IoT in public transport!

For several years, IoT technology has been generating considerable interest. Indeed, it optimizes processes in many sectors.

Discover the many applications of IoT in transportation

Observing the profound transformations that technology is bringing about, one thing is certain: this innovation is here to stay. The UITP states that by 2025, more than 75 billion devices will be connected to the internet. Naturally, public transport will follow this trend. The sector stands to gain significantly, particularly by improving service quality and reducing delays for passengers.

Thus, IoT technologies are revolutionizing public transport in multiple ways. Whether it’s enhancing safety, simplifying drivers’ work, or streamlining the passenger experience, IoT is propelling the sector into a new era.

What is the impact of IoT on transportation?

The Internet of Things (IoT) is playing a leading role in the transformation of transportation.  A major impact?  Vehicles are now veritable computers on wheels.  In concrete terms,  the IoT is revolutionizing the sector through fleet management, ticketing, and advanced business intelligence.

1. IoT for Fleet Management

Fleet managers are adopting IoT technology to optimize the tracking and monitoring of their operations.  This  allows them to easily ensure adherence to routes and procedures.  By guaranteeing this compliance,  IoT contributes to reducing greenhouse gas emissions.  It also enables  the monitoring and optimization of driving style.

Automated Ticketing and Valuable Data

With IoT, transport operators can implement or automate their ticketing systems.   Traditional methods are time-consuming and don’t allow for precise passenger tracking.  In contrast, IoT  -based ticket management enables real-time passenger counting, vehicle tracking, and accurate revenue monitoring.

2. IoT for Advanced Business Intelligence

Integrating IoT into public transport networks opens up extraordinary possibilities.  For example,  bus drivers can access smart dashboards.  These interfaces boost  interactivity, communication, and reporting,  directly improving  overall business performance.

Some examples of IoT tools for Business Intelligence

  • Intelligent Driver Dashboards:  These screens provide real-time data.  They display  traffic conditions, weather forecasts, the number of passengers on board, and even the status of other buses.
  • Transparent Communication Systems:  IoT devices play a key role in optimal communication.  In transportation,  they facilitate rapid exchanges between drivers, passengers, regulators, and maintenance teams.
  • Passenger Information Systems:  These are intelligent IoT technologies.  They allow  companies to manage passengers more efficiently.  Essential information  such as routes and delays is accessible via mobile applications.
  • Data Analysis:  In the data realm, the IoT reigns supreme.  These technologies manage  millions of data points and connections.   Analyzing them to gain insights  is therefore crucial . The IoT makes  this data available and analyzes it to support informed decision-making.

Discover now the links between these applications and the use of IoT in the healthcare sector

The Value of IoT in Public Transport

The Role of IoT in the Development of Smart Cities and its Effects on Public Transport

The Internet of Things (IoT) for smart cities uses devices to collect and analyze data. The insights generated are used to develop different components of the city, including public services.

According to Paresh Rawal, public transport systems in smart cities are only effective if they possess the following characteristics:

 1. Absolute Priority

This means that public transport systems must not encounter any obstacles in terms of speed and frequency. Their performance must surpass that of private transport. To achieve this, cities are creating dedicated bus lanes. This ensures faster journeys.

« Top priority » also implies rigorous monitoring of vehicles, regarding their speed and safety. IoT can reinforce this priority by helping to alleviate traffic congestion. It also ensures effective surveillance.

2. Seamless Connectivity through IoT

Rawal’s perspective emphasizes the importance of seamless connectivity. His approach centers on the idea that this connectivity should create a collaborative ecosystem. This ecosystem encourages innovative travel options and ensures safety.

The foundation of such a well-coordinated system rests on comprehensive monitoring mechanisms. In the context of smart cities, it becomes imperative to track the movements of vehicles and passengers throughout their entire journey.

Fortunately, IoT technologies offer an elegant vision for this goal. They enable real-time monitoring of transportation data, providing valuable insights to streamline the passenger experience. This allows cities to create a transportation environment that promotes safety and efficiency.

3. To Go Further

Furthermore, the capabilities of the IoT extend beyond simply improving the user experience. They also play a pivotal role in strengthening the connectivity of the transportation network itself. IoT technologies facilitate seamless transitions from one point to another, minimizing disruptions and optimizing the flow of passengers and vehicles. Ultimately, this contributes to a smoother and more integrated urban transportation system, in line with the overall vision of smart cities.

In summary, Rawal’s emphasis on seamless connectivity underscores the need for a holistic and integrated approach to public transportation systems in smart cities. IoT technologies act as a key lever, helping cities achieve not only efficient and safe transportation, but also a more enjoyable and interconnected urban mobility experience.

4. A Unified Body to Govern Modes of Transport

The author posits that the public transport systems of smart cities should be overseen by a unified body. This is already a reality in places like London with  Transport for London (TfL) , or in Indian cities with the Unified Metropolitan Transportation Authority (UMTA) .

These are the regulatory bodies for public transport systems. They use IoT technologies to monitor activities in order to ensure compliance and safety.

The application of IoT in public transportation strengthens these organizations in several ways. The technology helps with monitoring and efficient management processes. IoT can also contribute to improving the user experience.

5. Route information and real-time GPS tracking

Providing accurate and timely reports of useful information about public transport is crucial. The goal is to increase its trustworthiness in the eyes of the public.

Every smart city needs the public to have confidence in its public transport system, its safety, and its management processes.

In smart cities, the IoT is transforming public transport. Passengers now plan and book their journeys effortlessly via mobile applications.

6. Comfort and Safety

People like to feel safe and comfortable, even when using public transportation. Whether they take the bus or the train, their priority is safety. This is the whole point of smart cities, where all vehicles and passengers are managed in a way that guarantees comfort and safety.

IoT devices, such as smart sensors and cameras, can ensure easy access and comfort for passengers. This technology can also enable the implementation of monitoring systems for effective emergency notifications.

The Advantages of IoT in Public Transport

IoT technology has the potential to transform the traditional transportation system into a smart network in several ways:

1. Reducing Congestion Through IoT

Thanks to IoT sensors and data analysis, it is possible to provide real-time traffic information. This allows managers and authorities to make informed decisions, such as redirecting traffic to reduce congestion.

This approach saves time, reduces fuel consumption and greenhouse gas emissions associated with stationary vehicles.

2. Improving Driver Safety

This technology significantly enhances driver safety, notably by providing real-time road updates, hazard alerts, and speed limit information.

Connected vehicles equipped with sensors detect hazards and send early warnings, allowing drivers to take precautions and avoid accidents.

3. Improving the Public Transport Experience

The IoT is revolutionizing public transport by offering passengers real-time information on schedules, arrivals and delays, allowing them to plan their journeys smoothly.

Furthermore, it actively encourages the use of public transport at the expense of private vehicles, thereby reducing the number of cars on the roads.

This dual impact not only improves the user experience, but also addresses issues such as road congestion and environmental sustainability.

4. Promoting Sustainability

The IoT plays a vital role in promoting sustainability by reducing fuel consumption and emissions.

Real-time traffic data guides drivers away from congested roads, thus reducing fuel consumption and emissions.

Furthermore, the IoT facilitates the adoption of electric and hybrid vehicles, contributing to a cleaner environment.

5. Improving Operational Efficiency

The implementation of IoT improves the efficiency of transport systems by providing real-time data for route optimization, maintenance planning and fuel management.

By aiming to improve efficiency, the IoT streamlines operations, reduces costs and minimizes disruption for users.

6. Improved User Experience

The IoT offers users real-time updates, including arrival times and service alerts, thereby improving their experience and encouraging the use of public transport.

This change reduces the number of individual vehicles on the road, which is beneficial for both road users and the environment.

7. Strengthening of Security Measures

The IoT also excels in enhancing security. It monitors public transport vehicles, notifying authorities of any route deviations or mechanical problems.

Real-time alerts and emergency response systems are deployed to prioritize passenger safety.

8. Promotion of Sustainable Mobility

This cutting-edge technology goes even further by motivating people to choose environmentally friendly vehicles through an infrastructure connected via the IoT.

As a result, cities can significantly reduce pollution levels while promoting the widespread adoption of electric and hybrid cars.

What are the challenges of IoT in public transport?

Here are the five most common challenges associated with implementing IoT in public transport:

1. Costs and Financing

Public transport agencies often struggle to secure the necessary funding for IoT projects. This can include the installation of sensors, communication networks, and data analytics platforms.

2. Data Security and Confidentiality

The collection and management of sensitive data from vehicles and passengers raises security and privacy concerns.
Ensuring the protection of this data against cyber threats and respecting passenger confidentiality is a significant challenge.

3. Interoperability and Integration

Public transportation systems typically involve a mix of legacy and modern technologies.
Integrating IoT solutions with existing systems can be complex, primarily because different devices and platforms may not communicate seamlessly with each other.

4. Network Connectivity and Reliability

IoT devices rely on network connectivity to transmit data. But what happens when there are connection problems?
Ensuring continuous connectivity, especially in areas with weak network coverage, is crucial for real-time monitoring and data transmission.

5. Regulatory Compliance

Public transportation systems are subject to various regulations and standards.
Ensuring that IoT implementations comply with these rules can be challenging and complex.

Contact our IoT Solutions Expert Consultants Today

The Future of IoT in Public Transport

Demand for IoT in the transportation industry will continue to grow and develop. This technology has a great deal to offer, but only those who know how to connect to it will reap all the benefits.

The IoT in the public transport system is here to stay, and it will drive the future of urban travel.

In the future, we will witness the creation and transformation of more smart cities around the world, designed to meet the complexities and requirements of the IoT.

FAQ

Q1. How is the IoT actually used in public transport?

The Internet of Things (IoT) in public transport is primarily about providing users with real-time information, such as the arrival of the next bus or train and service alerts. It’s like having a true personal travel assistant that makes your journeys safer and more convenient!

Q2. Why is the IoT so important and what are its advantages?

The IoT is truly important, not just in transportation but in every sector. It boosts efficiency, enhances our security, and helps us better protect the environment. Whether you’re a daily commuter or an urban planner, the IoT has something to offer you.

Q3. What impact will the IoT have on the transport sector?

The Internet of Things (IoT) is poised to revolutionize transportation. It will streamline our journeys through real-time data, help reduce traffic congestion, and promote more environmentally friendly travel options. It’s a true revolution.

Q4. Why integrate IoT into public transport?

Integrating IoT into public transport networks guarantees uninterrupted access to real-time updates on arrival times and disruptions. This innovative technology is designed to optimize your travel experience and make public transport a more attractive option.

Q5. What is the role of the IoT in intelligent transport systems?

In intelligent transportation systems, the IoT provides real-time data for traffic management, monitors vehicle status, and ensures the implementation of safety measures. In short, it is the backbone of a smarter and more efficient transportation network.

Share This Article
Leave a comment