Communications giant T-Mobile, C-V2X developer Applied Information and traffic management solutions provider Temple are trialling 5G-connected vehicle technology, which enables traffic signals to communicate with any vehicle on the road via an app, at Peachtree Corners in Georgia, one of the USA’s first smart city environments to harness real-world connected infrastructure and 5G.
“We’re excited to offer smart connected infrastructure relevant to our citizens, city employees and visitors by enabling any vehicle to receive communications from 5G-connected traffic signals. Cellular vehicle-to-everything (C-V2X) technology isn’t just a concept here, it’s a reality that all people can experience just by downloading an app on their smartphones. This is truly the city street of the future, reminding us again of how important it will be for key elements of a city to communicate with each other to elevate safety and improve the daily lives of residents,” commented Brian Johnson, city manager of Peachtree Corners.
The system will rely on two-way communication -– via T-Mobile’s 5G network – between the traffic signal and devices such as smartphones, tablets and vehicles equipped with onboard-units. Using the ‘TravelSafely’ smartphone app, users will receive audible warnings about potential red light running as well as alerts to get ready for green. The system could also be utilized to provide priority traffic signals for emergency services use.
“The evolution from 4G to 5G brings revolutionary advances in the performance of connected vehicle applications. This powerful collaboration enables the industry to accelerate the pace of change for the better and make for safer travel for all,” added Bryan Mulligan, president of Applied Information.
Data collected from the project will, say the partners, help roadway operators and traffic technology developers better understand the performance of the 5G network to deliver safety messages to drivers and directly to equipped vehicles.