Research suggests that integrating modern vehicle technologies like GPS could revolutionize traditional traffic light systems, potentially paving the way for smoother traffic flow and reduced congestion in areas with high autonomous vehicle density.
As vehicles become increasingly connected and autonomous, significant changes may soon come to the traditional traffic light system. Researchers are looking at integrating modern vehicle technologies, like GPS, to overhaul how traffic is managed. This could potentially lead to the elimination of the conventional red, yellow, and green traffic signals, particularly in places with a high density of driverless cars.
Henry Liu, a civil engineering professor at the University of Michigan, is at the forefront of this research. He suggests that traffic signal systems adapted for autonomous vehicles could be implemented sooner than anticipated due to rapid advancements in artificial intelligence. In Birmingham, Michigan, a pilot study by the University has already shown promising results by using data from connected vehicles to optimize traffic light timing, enhancing flow and reducing congestion without the need for infrastructure changes.
Alternatively, Ali Hajbabaie of North Carolina State University proposes adding a fourth, possibly white, light to existing traffic signals. This would operate when there is a significant presence of autonomous vehicles on the road, indicating that driverless cars should then take control. However, for such a system to work effectively, 40% to 50% of vehicles on the road would need to be autonomous.
These developments suggest a future where traditional traffic management could be significantly altered by the technological capabilities of modern and future vehicles.
