Technology the future of transport

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With nine billion gallons of fuel wasted in traffic congestion annually, and billions spent on accidents, it's time to look at the future of technology in transport, according to IBM.

"Transportation researchers and strategists at IBM are concerned that the cure for transportation problems is not building more roads or adding flights," said George Pohle, strategy vice president at IBM, in a statement. "IBM thinks emerging technologies - especially in communications - will make travel safer, more streamlined and able to accommodate ever-increasing growth demands."

According to IBM, cars will soon be able to sense other cars and hazardous conditions. So-called "collaborative driving" means cars and drivers will work together, exchanging information on road infrastructure and traffic flow.

Indeed, drivers and cars will start to converse using voice recognition systems, allowing people to get updates, email, directions, and play music simply by speaking - all without taking their hands off the wheel.

As well, travellers will be able to messages via their mobile phones about train and bus delays using GPS technology to track public transport.

Such intelligent traffic control will extend to car congestion in cities. Real-time data will allow for instant adjustment to traffic lights, easing congestion and helping to clear paths for ambulances and police cars. Not only will commuters get home for dinner earlier, but less traffic jams means less emissions, too.

It's not just about cars and public transport, but about shortening queues at airports, too. Intelligent systems will control route changes - helping reduce lost luggage - while the location of jets and crews will be tracked in order to reroute them because of airport delays, IBM predicted.

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