Smarter transport

Did you know...

• The impact of congestion in Perth is expected to get worse, with Infrastructure Australia estimating that the cost of congestion on Perth's roads will more than double by the year 2031 to $3.6 billion each year.
• Congested roads suffer from higher crash rates, increased fuel consumption and more greenhouse gas emissions.
• Using technology to create a smarter transport system and preparing for a safe transition to driverless vehicles is essential for ensuring the future liveability of WA.

Making our transport system work harder and smarter

We cannot meet all our transport needs, and tackle Perth's congestion challenge by simply expanding our road network. We need to make better use of the infrastructure we already have by using new and emerging technology.

Smart transport solutions can be integrated into road, parking and community infrastructure, as well as vehicles and public transport networks to deliver a more efficient and safer transport system.

In 2012, RAC initiated a two year Traffic Signal Safety and Efficiency Project in partnership with the State Government, The project demonstrated the importance of technology for increasing the efficiency of Western Australia's traffic signals, reducing queuing and delays, and improving journey times.

World-leading driverless vehicle trials

Since 2016, RAC has been testing a fully driverless, fully electric shuttle bus on WA roads — the RAC Intellibus.

By working together with our partners to deliver our Automated Vehicle Program, we're moving closer to solving urban and regional mobility challenges and readying Australia for safer, easier, cleaner mobility.

Data and privacy considerations

Automated vehicles and smart technologies will generate a greater breadth and depth of new data than our current vehicles and infrastructure and has the potential to enable a safer and more efficient transport system.

While on one hand this data will be invaluable to support evidence-based policy, strategic planning and investment decision-making to ensure the safety and efficiency of transport systems, it presents privacy challenges regarding the collection, storage and use of both personal and sensitive information that will need to be carefully managed.