Transportation
Articles tagged with Transportation
Toward startup-friendly smart cities
FAU study uncovers why pedestrian deaths continue to rise in the US
A new study by Florida Atlantic University researchers highlights the role of urban planning in increasing pedestrian and bicyclist fatalities in the US. The study reveals that everyday destinations like grocery stores and pharmacies along busy roads significantly increase risk of serious injury or death.
Post-pandemic cycling boom in major cities, as cyclist safety improved thanks to more and better cycling infrastructure
A new study reveals a post-pandemic cycling boom in major cities, with fatality rates dropping by up to 88% in Paris, 82% in London, and 62% in New York City. The improvement is attributed to the expansion and improvement of cycling infrastructure, including cycleways separated from motor vehicle traffic.
Express ferries: From climate culprits to green champions
Researchers at NTNU have developed a model that calculates which high-speed passenger routes can be operated with zero-emission express ferries. The study shows that a combination of batteries and fuel cells is necessary to meet the goal, emphasizing the importance of smart energy management.
Tolls saved Britain from pothole hell in the Industrial Revolution, diaries reveal
A new study analyzing nearly 100 travellers' diaries reveals that turnpiking improved road conditions, reducing danger and speeding up journeys. The toll-funded system made a major contribution to the Industrial Revolution by reducing freight rates and enabling faster stagecoach travel.
When the rain comes, some New York City subway riders stay home. Scientists are now mapping exactly who, and where
A new NYU study analyzes hourly ridership at 10 major NYC subway stations between 2023 and 2025. Heavy rain affects peak hour travel, while extreme cold has a smaller impact, especially off-peak. The research highlights the importance of considering infrastructure, station design, and surrounding land use in transit planning.
New review maps design pathways for electrified propulsion in air, ground, and sea transport
A comprehensive review reorganizes the design space for electrified propulsion systems in three-dimensional transportation, proposing six design stages to guide future research. The review addresses challenges specific to TDT propulsion design, including balancing energy efficiency, weight, reliability, and emissions.
Global EV transition hinges on policy adoption, cost reductions
A new study finds that aggressive policy action and cost reductions can accelerate the global shift to electric vehicles, reducing energy use and carbon emissions. The study suggests a uniform 20% reduction in non-energy costs could dramatically increase EV adoption rates, with market share rising from 25-50% to 70-85% globally by 2035.
NTU Singapore and AUMOVIO launch second phase of partnership to drive innovation for tomorrow’s AI-defined vehicles
The AUMOVIO-NTU Corporate Lab will focus on areas like AI, sustainability, novel materials, and connectivity to develop solutions for safer, smarter, and more sustainable transportation. The joint lab aims to accelerate innovations that can support Singapore's future mobility ecosystem.
Train transfer hub linked to reduced healthcare spending
A study found that opening new train stations can lead to lower healthcare costs, but only for individual stations that serve as transfer hubs. Shigino Station showed a significant reduction in healthcare expenditure due to its strong connectivity.
MIT researchers measure traffic emissions, to the block, in real-time
A new study by MIT researchers provides a high-resolution picture of auto emissions in NYC, allowing for more effective transportation and decarbonization policies. The method produces detailed data that bridges the gap between citywide emissions inventories and individual vehicle analyses.
Europe could completely replace fossil fuels in road transport
A KIT study shows that Europe has enough renewable resources to replace fossil fuels in road transport. The research highlights the potential of using diverse raw materials like straw, wood scraps, and organic waste to produce climate-friendly fuels.
Electric cars can make power grids more reliable (and earn owners money) – so why aren’t we doing that?
A new study identifies the barriers to vehicle-to-grid (V2G) adoption, including coordination problems, limited infrastructure, and varying regulations. V2G technology can provide backup power during periods of high energy demand and earn EV owners money for supplying energy to the grid.
Subway systems are uncomfortably hot — and worsening
Subway systems are consistently reporting thermal discomfort due to the rising heat, with complaints increasing by 10-27% for every 1 degree Celsius above 10 degrees Celsius in Boston, New York, and London respectively. The study aims to help transit agencies anticipate extreme heat and implement targeted mitigation strategies.
Hybrid ‘super foam’: tunable, lightweight and ultra-durable
Researchers at Texas A&M University and DEVCOM Army Research Laboratory developed a hybrid foam with a 3D-printed plastic skeleton, offering tunable, lightweight and ultra-durable properties. The composite combines ordinary foam with plastic struts, allowing it to absorb more energy and withstand greater forces.
Living in a favela influences how people move around the city
Residents of favelas in São Paulo exhibit less daily movement variability than those living in formal areas with similar incomes. Despite higher economic conditions, infrastructure challenges impact mobility access and stability. The study uses mobile phone data to analyze movement patterns over several weeks.
SMART study reveals strategic flight connections key to attracting global business and investment
A new study by SMART has identified a strong statistical association between global air connectivity and patterns of multinational corporations' investments. The research found that few layovers meant more subsidiaries, with cities having better flight connections to influential hubs outperforming those with less-connected destinations.
The psychology of self-driving cars: Why the technology doesn’t suit human brains
The article highlights the psychological demands of self-driving cars on human brains, citing Professor McLeod's research and personal experience. He emphasizes the need for clearer interfaces, simulation-based training, and updated driving tests to address these challenges and ensure safe automation uptake across society.
I’m walking here! A new model maps foot traffic in New York City
A new model maps foot traffic in New York City, providing insights into pedestrian activity and hazard locations. The study reveals high densities of foot traffic outside Manhattan, with many streets having similar foot-traffic levels to Manhattan's busiest areas.
Used EVs currently offer car buyers lowest lifetime cost of ownership
A new study from the University of Michigan found that used electric vehicles (EVs) currently offer the lowest lifetime cost of ownership, with significant savings for drivers. The researchers analyzed virtual vehicle models, monthly gas and electricity prices, and Craigslist data to determine the total cost of ownership for different ...
Heavy transport using green hydrogen is more expensive in the Nordic region
A study from Linköping University finds that locally produced green hydrogen is cheaper to produce at southern latitudes due to favorable solar energy conditions. The cost of green hydrogen production varies across European countries, with Nordic nations facing higher costs due to lack of sunlight.
UC3M presents a platform to improve mobility in the city of Madrid
NEXMO Datahub is a mobility data space that enables secure and reliable data exchange between public and private organizations, fostering innovative solutions for smarter and more sustainable mobility. The platform aims to accelerate the digital transformation of the sector through data sharing among key stakeholders.
SEOULTECH researchers reveal strong public support for hydrogen fuel cell trucks
A study by Seoul National University of Science & Technology found that expanding hydrogen fuel cell heavy-duty trucks could reduce carbon dioxide emissions by approximately 8.74 million tons. Public willingness to pay for this transition amounts to KRW 572.4 billion, far exceeding the prevailing carbon credit price.
How are scientists tackling vibration risks in next-generation maglev trains？
Researchers are tackling vibration risks in maglev trains by developing control strategies that incorporate robust control, adaptive algorithms and artificial intelligence. Matching the dynamic characteristics of vehicle, guideway and control system is crucial to suppress vibrations.
Fewer layovers, better-connected airports, more firm growth
A new study by MIT researchers reveals that cities with strong airline connections are more likely to attract multinational firms, particularly in knowledge industries. The study analyzed 7.5 million firms in 800 cities and found that direct flights lead to a 20% increase in subsidiaries, compared to cities with only one-stop connections.
Study: More eyes on the skies will help planes reduce climate-warming contrails
Contrails formed from plane exhaust meet icy air, growing into threads that trap heat and contribute to warming the planet. Combining images from geostationary and low-Earth-orbiting satellites may provide a more complete picture of contrail life and radiative properties.
New framework reveals where transport emissions concentrate in Singapore
A new framework reveals that compact, mixed-use districts like One-North are designed to generate cleaner travel patterns, but the reality is more complex. Emissions hotspots were identified at major arterial roads, weaker transit-accessible edges of districts, and busy corridors like North Buona Vista Road.
Seeing farther: A new camera-based technique detects distant vehicles for safer roads
A new method analyzes nearby vehicle motion to estimate road's trajectory and vanishing point, capturing distant road areas and enhancing safety. The system outperformed conventional and deep learning-based techniques in tests under day and night conditions, reducing intersection-related accidents.
Walking to work can be faster—and healthier—than you think
A Bar-Ilan University study suggests that incorporating more walking into daily commutes can improve health without adding extra travel time. By increasing the walking distance thresholds in trip planning, researchers found that most commuters could benefit from an average of nine minutes of walking per day.
Rising heat leads to minimal losses for California processing tomatoes
Researchers found that optimal conditions, such as cool weather and heavy traffic, minimize postharvest losses for California processing tomatoes. The study analyzed 1.4 million truckloads of tomatoes between 2011 and 2020, finding modest losses despite rising temperatures.
Most older drivers aren’t thinking about the road ahead, poll suggests
A new poll suggests that more than 80% of people over 65 drive at least weekly, but less than half have made a plan for when they can no longer drive safely due to health changes. Only 6% of older drivers have discussed their driving with a healthcare provider.
Pusan National University researchers develop model to accurately predict vessel turnaround time
Researchers at Pusan National University have developed a new framework for predicting vessel turnaround time by leveraging queuing-based operation indicators. This dynamic approach captures time-varying fluctuations in port operations, offering a more accurate and actionable forecast.
Cheaper cars pollute more than expensive cars, leading to emissions inequality
Research by University of Birmingham scientists reveals that lower-income individuals are more likely to own cheaper, higher-emitting vehicles contributing disproportionately to local urban air pollution. Spending an additional £10,000 on a diesel vehicle is associated with a 40% reduction in nitrogen oxide emissions per litre.
Digital access improves convenience — but cannot fully replace physical services
A new study shows that while digital access improves daily life activities and sustainability outcomes, it cannot fully replace physical services. The research team developed an innovative evaluation framework to quantify the quality of life in smart cities, highlighting the need for a balance between real-world community support and d...
Humanity travels an average of 78 minutes per day, regardless of living standards
According to a new study, humans travel for approximately 1.3 hours per day, regardless of their location or socioeconomic status. This constant travel time is influenced by psychological desires and practical limitations, resulting in a convergent range of travel times across different modes of transport.
The next frontier in clean flight? Jet fuel from city waste
Researchers explore using municipal solid waste as a low-emission, cost-effective feedstock for sustainable aviation fuel, reducing greenhouse gas emissions by 80-90%. The study suggests that adopting municipal solid waste-based jet fuels could save airlines money under carbon pricing systems.
Carbon footprint of conference travel
Researchers at ISTA quantify the environmental impact of international conference travel, finding that train travel can significantly reduce carbon emissions. The study shows that traveling to an overseas conference generates a substantial carbon footprint of four to five tons per participant.
Metros cut car use in European cities, but trams fall short
A new study from the Complexity Science Hub found that European cities with a metro system have a significant reduction in car use, with an average of 37% of car trips compared to 50% in cities with only trams and 54% without rail. In contrast, tram cities show no measurable impact on reducing car use.
Lightning-prediction tool could help protect the planes of the future
A new physics-based approach predicts how lightning strikes aircraft, identifying vulnerable regions for protection. The tool can be applied to any shape of aircraft, including unconventional designs.
How emission control policies deliver synergetic climate and environmental health benefits in transportation sector
A policy-specific assessment framework evaluates integrated effects of emission control policies on greenhouse gas mitigation, air quality improvement, and public health protection. China's on-road transportation policies have achieved remarkable progress but face weakening synergies, underscoring the need for deep structural transitions.
New drivetrain technology for off-road vehicles: moving safely in difficult terrain
A new drive system with individual gearbox control on each wheel improves wheel grip and enables exact speed compensation when cornering. This allows vehicles to move safely in challenging terrains, such as steep slopes and uneven ground. The technology is suitable for emission-free drives and preserves the conventional drivetrain.
Daily activities can help social networks evolve, but lasting ties take more
Researchers developed a novel framework to capture dynamic nature of social networks, finding that scattered seeds of connections only grow when nourished, while policy restrictions can cut network growth by almost one-third.
Do imported cut flowers spread livestock viruses?
Researchers investigated whether cut flowers from Africa could spread livestock viruses through tiny biting midges. While no midges were found in packaging or transport areas, the study highlights potential risks and suggests measures to reduce them.
Crosswalk confusion: MA drivers flummoxed by pedestrian hybrid beacons, find UMass Amherst researchers
A study by UMass Amherst researchers found that nearly a quarter of MA drivers run through the red light at pedestrian hybrid beacons. Drivers also often stop too soon or fail to slow down during flashing yellow phases, causing confusion and potential safety issues.
Accounting for uncertainty to help engineers design complex systems
MIT researchers developed a new framework that helps engineers design complex systems explicitly accounting for uncertainty. The framework allows them to model the performance tradeoffs of a device with many interconnected parts, each of which could behave in unpredictable ways. This approach can help engineers develop complex systems ...
Stronger together: Community involvement is key for new transport adoption
A study by Osaka Metropolitan University reveals that community involvement is a powerful driver of acceptance among people with poor health. The research found that increasing the density of stops in residential areas can make demand-responsive transport more accessible to those with limited mobility. The study's findings suggest that...
The insomnia trade-off
A study found that longer commutes and smaller living spaces are associated with poor sleep health among Tokyo residents. Housing choices that balance location and size may help improve sleep health, according to researchers at Osaka Metropolitan University.
PSU research shows Portland transit-oriented developments reduce car trips, especially at affordable housing sites
A new study by Portland State University's Transportation Research and Education Center (TREC) reveals that transit-oriented developments (TODs) in the Portland metro area generate significantly fewer car trips than previously estimated. At affordable housing sites, car trips were reduced to only a quarter to two-fifths of expected rates.
Rented e-bicycles more dangerous than e-scooters in cities
A recent study published in the Journal of Safety Research found that rented e-bikes have an eight times higher crash risk than rented e-scooters, calculated based on trip distance. The researchers used GPS data to compare micromobility in seven European cities and found a surprising result.
AI review unveils new strategies for fixing missing traffic data in smart cities
Researchers from Shandong Technology and Business University survey the latest AI-powered techniques to fill in missing traffic data gaps. The study categorizes and compares leading data imputation methods, offering a clear roadmap for researchers and city planners to improve traffic management and smart city operations.
EVs reduce climate pollution, but by how much? New U-M research has the answer
A new study from the University of Michigan analyzed 35 different vehicle combinations and found that EVs have lower emissions over their lifetime than any other vehicle type in every county in the contiguous US. The lowest emission vehicle class was the compact sedan BEV with a range of 200 miles.
SwRI developing traffic data platform to support Dallas-Fort Worth area travelers
A transportation system management and operations data exchange solution will be developed by SwRI for the North Central Texas Council of Governments. The platform aims to enhance mobility, safety, and infrastructure management in the region. It will serve as a regional clearinghouse for real-time transportation system data.
Ultrafast untethered levitation device utilized squeeze film for omni-directional transport
Scientists at Yokohama National University have created a device that uses acoustic levitation and a squeeze film to move objects without friction, enabling fast and precise transport of small parts. The device was tested on an inclined surface and showed successful movement with weights up to 43 grams.
Eco-driving measures could significantly reduce vehicle emissions
A large-scale modeling study led by MIT researchers reveals that dynamically adjusting vehicle speeds can cut annual city-wide intersection carbon emissions by 11-22%. Implementing eco-driving measures could also result in a 25-50% reduction in CO2 emissions if only 10% of vehicles adopt the technology.
Illinois Tech hosts EV Readiness Community Awards, showcasing nation-leading energy innovation
The Illinois Tech EV Readiness Community Awards celebrate local governments leading the transition to electric vehicles, with a focus on energy innovation and sustainability. The university's campus-wide transformation showcases its resilience and sustainability as a model for urban energy systems of the future.
Stepping for digital rewards
A study found that users who exchanged daily walking steps for digital train tickets increased their walking by an average of 626.2 steps/day. Those using shopping coupon incentives walked 715.2 steps/day more on average than non-users. The results suggest effective promotion of active travel through well-designed mHealth apps.
Curbing roadway fatalities hinges on shared responsibility and rethinking safety
A Safe Systems Approach emphasizes that road users, designers, operators, policymakers, administrators, and healthcare professionals all have a role to play in reducing fatalities. By adopting this approach, countries can realize significant success in eliminating roadway deaths, but full commitment from stakeholders is necessary.
Michigan's air mobility research corridor to advance electric air travel and beyond-line-of-sight drones
The Michigan Air Mobility Research Corridor will test advanced air mobility technologies, including battery-powered aircraft and autonomous systems. The corridor, spanning 40 miles from Ann Arbor to Detroit, aims to enable safe and efficient flight testing.
Global drought hotspots report catalogs severe suffering, economic damage in 2023-2025
A comprehensive report cataloging the most widespread and damaging drought events since 2023 reveals food, water, energy crises and human tragedies. The 'Drought Hotspots Around the World 2023-2025' report underscores the need for systematic monitoring of drought's impacts on lives, livelihoods, and ecosystems.