The theme of mobility plays a crucial role in the sustainable development of future cities and, more broadly, in the more efficient use of resources. Day by day, millions of citizens move for work, recreation, travel, or simple daily activities. Therefore, the future of mobility is not only about moving from point A to point B but directly impacts the daily lives of those who inhabit and animate these cities.
Recently, phenomena such as car sharing, carpooling, and peer-to-peer transport services are gaining ground, especially among younger generations. In the age group between 18 and 40, there is a decrease in the use of owned vehicles in favor of mobility-sharing systems, leveraging apps and new technologies.
In this period of rapid change, Smart Mobility is emerging as an increasingly relevant and necessary social and technological revolution. It goes beyond simplifying the movement of people and goods, positioning itself as a catalyst for the transformation of urban spaces into sustainable environments. This article will explore how the intersection of technology and mobility can contribute to reducing environmental impact and improving the quality of life for all of us.
In the digital era we are living in, the Internet of Things (IoT) emerges as a condition for many innovations that are revolutionizing various fields, including Mobility. The connectivity of IoT devices enables an unprecedented synergy between vehicles, infrastructure, and users: intelligent sensors integrated into roads can monitor real-time traffic, sending valuable data to optimize management. Connected cars can communicate with each other, avoiding collisions and optimizing routes to reduce travel times. This synergy also extends to services related to Shared Transportation: IoT devices, for example, allow effortless booking and location of shared vehicles. The combination of IoT & Smart Mobility, in addition to making transportation more efficient, sets the groundwork for new services that aim for a personalized mobility experience.
Another pillar of the sustainable mobility of the future is the transition to electric vehicles. Battery technology has taken giant strides, making electric vehicles increasingly accessible and practical. With zero local emissions, these vehicles not only reduce environmental impact but are also at the forefront in terms of performance. The widespread adoption of fast and accessible charging infrastructure is crucial to ensuring the success of this revolution. There is still much to be done in this area, especially regarding the production and disposal of batteries, but it is undeniable that a path has been taken from which it will be difficult to turn back.
The sharing of transportation is another sector that has greatly benefited from new technologies. Car sharing and bike sharing platforms allow for a more efficient use of vehicles, reducing the overall number of cars in circulation and decreasing pressure on available resources. User-friendly applications make booking and using these services a breeze, promoting a more sustainable and healthy lifestyle.
The advent of autonomous driving is also revolutionizing mobility. Vehicles capable of moving autonomously, perhaps "communicating with each other in real-time," promise to reduce road accidents and optimize traffic flows. With greater fuel efficiency and more predictable travel times, autonomous driving emerges as a valuable ally in the fight for more sustainable mobility.
The technology of Smart Mobility platforms has evolved significantly in recent years: from car-sharing platforms to ride-sharing platforms, from bike-sharing platforms to those for managing corporate fleets. But what can they practically serve for?
1. To manage the transportation of people or goods, for example, to plan the optimal route and obtain information on the location of vehicles.
2. To monitor vehicles, collect data on their location, as well as speed or fuel consumption.
3. To manage the fleet, for example, to assign vehicles to employees and track their performance.
4. To provide travelers with information on transportation schedules or seat availability.
As crucial as the technological aspect is, it is not the only factor influencing the future of mobility: our cities must also be able to accommodate and facilitate change.
A Smart City is not only digital and interconnected but must also offer personalized mobility solutions based on the needs of citizens. This also impacts infrastructure for micromobility, such as bike lanes and pedestrian sidewalks, which must be increasingly integrated.
The cities of the future are called to be sustainable: the integration of smart infrastructures, such as synchronized traffic lights, traffic sensors, and vehicular communication networks, will enable more efficient management of vehicle and pedestrian flows. This will reduce travel times and dangerous situations, but will also contribute to an overall reduction in emissions. New technologies are shaping a future where urban mobility is not only efficient but also environmentally friendly. From roads to infrastructure, from vehicles to transportation sharing, technological innovation offers key solutions to address environmental challenges and build greener and more livable cities.
