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Connected and Automated Vehicles
Australia has commenced a wide range of connected (using both cellular V2X and DSRC) and automated vehicle trials. It also has a nationally consistent and principles-based approach to the timely deployment of emerging transport technologies, including CAVs.
In addition to world-leading developments across individual states, Australia is investing in and facilitating the appropriate infrastructure for CAVs with Austroads, the peak organisation for Australasian road agencies. This includes a range of projects that investigate the operational requirements to support automated vehicles, including physical and digital infrastructure needs.
Communications
Australia’s communication networks can support both Dedicated Short- Range Communications (DSRC) and Long-Term Evolution (LTE) direct technology deployment.
The Australian Government is supporting the deployment of 5G networks by making spectrum available in a timely manner. The country is well located to conduct connected and automated vehicle trials and deployments requiring positioning accuracy and availability, as it has visibility of all next-generation Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) satellites, as well as two Regional Navigation Satellite Systems (RNSS).
Australia is open to all levels of Australian governments are working together to ensure that connected vehicles in Australia are interoperable, regardless of the applications or ITS stations being used.
The road agencies welcome the opportunity to support the data input needs of connected and automated vehicle trials. Road agencies are already providing Signal, Phase and Timing data (SPaT) to support current trials.
Australian governments have made a commitment to an open-by-default approach to transport data, and other datasets may be made available on request. Organisations that deploy connected and automated vehicles are responsible for cyber security, both in trials and deployment. This includes government organisations providing data from roadside infrastructure.
Mobility as a Service
“Transport for NSW has created a first-of-its-kind Future Transport Digital Accelerator that will enable innovators and start-ups to collaborate directly with the organisation. The aim is to deliver future transport projects that will, among other benefits, personalise a traveller’s experience”, says, Munish Sharma.
The development of the Australian MaaS sector has evolved from a market that has embraced the sharing economy. New South Wales, Victoria and Queensland account for more than 80 per cent of the car share market in Australia. Australian companies such as Car Next Door and SkedGo are assisting in improving congestion, pollution and mobility options.
Australia has a sophisticated range of car share; bike share and ride share operators.