TfL is to introduce ‘innovative’ new technology in an effort to reduce road danger and disruption caused by roadworks and unplanned incidents on the Capital’s road network.
In 2019, TfL launched a challenge called RoadLab, which called on the UK-based innovators to develop technology that could make roadworks ‘safer, smarter and more accessible’.
Following a procurement process, TfL has now awarded contracts to two start-ups – samdesk and Immense – to achieve this goal.
Immense uses simulation technology that models roadworks to understand their impact before they take place. The software can provide TfL and utilities staff with information on predicted congestion impacts, increases in emissions and the safety impacts of planned roadworks.
This information can then be used to inform people in London about predicted impacts to their intended journey, TfL says.
Meanwhile, software from samdesk leverages artificial intelligence and real time anonymised social media data to detect emerging disruptions, giving TfL staff a faster and more comprehensive insight into incidents unfolding across the transport network.
It is hoped having early access to information about incidents across London will help TfL to respond to them more quickly.
TfL says the technology will make a real difference to keeping people safe, helping to cut congestion and cleaning up London’s air.
Rikesh Shah, TfL’s head of commercial innovation, said: “London’s road network plays an absolutely vital role in keeping the Capital moving and we’re always looking for innovative ways of making our streets safer, smarter and more sustainable.
“Our RoadLab programme has shown how the public and private sector can work together to create smart solutions to London’s transport problems.
“The technology developed by both samdesk and Immense builds on the great results we achieved following the research and development work with during RoadLab.”
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