Smart infrastructure is the result of merging advanced technologies, data analytics, and connectivity with different components of physical infrastructure, including transportation networks, utilities, and communication networks.
Smart infrastructure involves integrating data analytics tools, Internet of Things (IoT) devices, and sensors into the systems. The concept encompasses large-scale infrastructure systems, including transportation networks, utilities, communication systems, etc.
The market for smart infrastructure is experiencing exponential growth, forecast to expand at a compound annual growth rate of 12.1 from 2024 to 2031. The primary driver may be the implementation of energy storage infrastructure systems that increase customer satisfaction.
The implementation of smart infrastructure primarily focuses on reducing environmental effects and enhancing the quality of life by offering convenience, flexibility, and clean and green technologies. How can mobility solutions benefit from this? Let’s discuss.
● IoT-enabled traffic management systems gather real-time data to control traffic lights, reduce jams, and reduce accidents. This keeps traffic moving smoothly and also helps lower pollution.
● Smart charging stations support the use of electric vehicles. Stations modify their rates in accordance with demand and even tap into renewable energy. So far, EVs are becoming an easy option for drivers.
● Ride-hailing apps can provide faster service by taking advantage of smart traffic systems.
● Autonomous vehicles communicate with traffic lights and other cars to navigate safely.
● The smart parking system can help eScooters or bike sharing by reducing congestion and optimising the use of available parking spaces.
Given the impact that transportation and vehicles have on the environment, the emerging mobility solutions are focused on sustainable mobility. There are three primary objectives of sustainable mobility:
Smart infrastructure, which makes the management of physical resources easier by integrating advanced technologies, can help mobility startups offer their services to citizens more streamlined. For instance, a mobility startup focused on launching electric vehicles can benefit from smart charging networks that allow users to find charging stations through an app.
The upcoming mobility startups are introducing innovative solutions to make transportation more accessible and combat environmental issues as well. These include electric vehicles, ride-sharing, autonomous driving, and micro-mobility. Here are the different smart infrastructures that can contribute to the success of mobility startups:
These systems gather real-time data from sensors, cameras, and connected devices to optimise traffic flow, reduce congestion, and improve safety. The data is then analysed using artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) algorithms. The applications can then make real-time adjustments to traffic signals, reroute vehicles, and manage intersections more effectively.
Embedded solutions and smartphone-based apps are helping startups advance mobility connectivity, which in turn helps them integrate smoothly into existing road networks. For mobility startups offering services like ride-hailing or autonomous vehicles, efficient traffic management is crucial for reducing delays and maximising customer satisfaction. IoT helps easily track vehicular data for various use cases, such as fleet management, insurance, driver safety, and predictive maintenance.
The example of a US-based startup, DIMO demonstrates the use of IoT in mobility solutions. Drivers and fleet managers can use the app to get insights about their vehicles. It helps mobility solution developers by providing resources to create tools and applications that promote zero-emission mobility, insurance management, shared mobility services, and EV batteries.
As electric vehicles (EVs) become more popular, a robust and accessible charging infrastructure is paramount. Smart charging solutions are powered by advanced technologies such as machine learning, data analytics and internet connectivity.
Mobility startups focusing on EVs, including ride-sharing companies, last-mile delivery services, and electric fleet providers, can benefit from the availability of smart charging stations to ensure their vehicles remain operational.
Startups offering EV-based services can optimise their fleets’ charging schedules based on real-time station data, ensuring minimal disruptions to service.
Finding parking in congested urban areas is a persistent challenge for drivers. Smart parking systems, powered by IoT sensors and real-time data, help address this issue by providing real-time information on available parking spaces. These systems can guide drivers to the nearest available spot, reducing time spent circling for parking and decreasing traffic congestion.
For mobility startups offering shared mobility services or last-mile delivery, efficient parking solutions are essential for reducing downtime and ensuring smooth operations. Additionally, smart parking systems can be integrated with mobile apps to allow for cashless payments and advance parking spot reservations, enhancing the user experience.
V2X communication refers to the exchange of information between a vehicle and its surroundings, including other vehicles, infrastructure, and pedestrians. This technology is critical for enabling autonomous vehicles to navigate safely and efficiently within complex urban environments. V2X communication allows vehicles to “talk” to traffic lights, road signs, and even other cars, enabling real-time decision-making and improving road safety.
For mobility startups developing autonomous or semi-autonomous vehicles, V2X communication is essential for smooth integration with existing road networks.
The integration of data analytics into urban mobility is transforming how cities manage transportation systems. Mobility startups can leverage traffic patterns, vehicle usage, and customer behaviour data to optimise their services, improve efficiency, and reduce costs. Conversely, cities can use this data to plan infrastructure upgrades, implement sustainable mobility initiatives, and reduce congestion.
For example, mobility platforms like Uber use data analytics to predict demand, optimise routing, and manage pricing in real-time.
The integration of smart infrastructure and mobility solutions is essential for building the cities of the future. IoT-enabled traffic management systems, smart charging stations, V2X communication, and data analytics play critical roles in shaping the next generation of transportation systems. These innovations provide mobility startups with the foundation needed to scale their solutions and deliver seamless, efficient, and sustainable services.
For mobility startups, leveraging these innovations opens doors to enhanced services, increased customer satisfaction, and significant environmental benefits. At AIC T-Hub , we are committed to empowering such startups through our tailored programs, providing the resources, mentorship, and industry connections necessary to scale innovative mobility solutions. To learn more about how AIC T-Hub is supporting startups in driving the next generation of smart infrastructure and mobility, visit our programs page and explore the opportunities we offer.