The Internet of Things (IoT) in transportation is a rapidly expanding business. Allied Market Research reported that the global IoT in transport market was valued at USD$83.25 billion in 2020 and is projected to reach USD$495.57 billion by 2030.
Additionally, Berg insights estimates cellular IoT specific modules for OEM automotive accounts for 157 million units sold, while transport and logistics alone representing 96 million units sold in 2022.
Cellular IoT devices are deployed across the transportation sector via embedded sensors and actuators. These devices gather and transmit data about real-world activities, transforming the way the transportation sector operates.
Currently, the most common use cases of cellular IoT include traffic monitoring systems, fleet telematics, micromobility initiatives.
As eMobility Expo World Congress 2024 draws to a close in Valencia, we take a closer look at some of these use cases are utilizing cellular IoT to revolutionize the industry.
Public transport
Cellular IoT in public transport management is already in wide use in major cities including Seoul, Singapore, Copenhagen and London. These applications extend to real-time vehicle tracking, integrated ticketing and automated fare collection, passenger information systems, passenger information display systems, and more. IoT applications in these cases help to alleviate issues such as traffic congestion, environmental pollution and delays in public transport. It also serves to keep passengers up
Micromobility
Another recent yet significant use case of smart technology in transportation is through the rise of micromobility transportation options. These extend to ridesharing, bicycles and e-scooters to streamline transportation via shorter routes, less idling, and more fuel-efficient travelling. These features work together to put a dent in the carbon footprint that transportation generates. After all, smart mobility vehicles often run on cleaner energy sources. Smart mobility also reduces the crowding on city streets, creating a safer and quieter cityscape.
Supply chain and logistics
Vehicle tracking systems are typically used within the supply chain and logistics sectors help companies manage their inventory and fleets effectively. They can help optimize route and trip schedules, vehicle loads and fuel consumption. Additionally, IoT may be used to monitor driver safety by transmitting behavior including information surrounding idling time and driving style (e.g., speeding, breaking). Real time data allows rapid adjustments for unpredicted incidents such as accidents, roadworks, emergencies etc., helping to re-route and make journeys more efficient.
Traffic Management
A fast-growing use case within mobility and transport comes to the adoption of IoT in roading and traffic management. Within cities, sensors can be embedded into roads, parking garages, and traffic stops to transmit vehicle-related data to traffic management centers. This will vastly improve the flow of traffic and the safety of all users.
Connected Cars
Today, new cars are largely equipped with some form of IoT to monitor a wide range of applications. From brakes and engine health to the control of tire pressure and exhaust gas composition. IoT enabled cars can proactively react to maintenance concerns, preempt traffic delays, and avoid traffic accidents. Afterall, road accidents nearly always occur due to human error or mechanical failure with the NHTSA reporting that traffic accidents account for USD$299.5 billion in economic losses every year. A staggering figure that can easily be reduced or eliminated altogether.
Summary
The benefits of utilizing cellular IoT technology are wide and varied. Yet, there are also potential drawbacks.
IoT devices are targets for malicious actors, increasing the vulnerability of a network. Thus, security needs to be at the heart of any decision or IoT solution from design to deployment and beyond.
That’s why it’s important to partner with a provider who can deliver a secure, end-to-end, seamless solution.
Reach out to us to find out more about how our award-winning cellular IoT technology can provide solutions for your business.