Smart cities collect data from a variety of connected sensors and electronic devices. The development of smart cities relies on the Internet of Things (IoT), information and communication technology (ICT), and strong connectivity.
Fifth generation (5G) wireless mobile communications provides an advanced communications network that connects everything. 5G is an essential part of smart city development. It provides the necessary communication infrastructure for various smart city projects.
Transforming public transport is one of the key objectives of smart city development. This blog will focus on the need for a smart public transformation system, the role of 5G and IoT in it, environmental benefits, real-world examples, and future aspects.
The need for public transport transformation
Traditional public transport is not very efficient and professionally managed. People have to wait for hours at bus stops, and the buses they are going to are often full. Due to population growth and limited public transport, people find traveling by public transport to be a nightmare. Despite traveling while waiting in a crowded bus, you end up arriving late at your destination.
National transport authorities are working on these issues. They are now leveraging smart technologies such as IoT and 5G to provide robust public transportation systems.
5G and IoT are game changers for public transportation systems
5G is the fifth generation mobile network that virtually connects everything around the world. It has revolutionized smart cities because of its enhanced connectivity, speed, and latency. It can transmit data at approximately 10 Gbps with a latency of about 1 ms.
5G will allow data to be transferred instantly. 5G applications are not limited to providing high-speed internet to smartphones, but will play a key role in the next generation of intelligent transportation systems.
IoT, on the other hand, is a network of interconnected devices that can communicate and exchange data. Transform transportation systems by transforming ordinary vehicles into data-driven, intelligent assets. Sensors, IoT devices, and GPS systems can be embedded in buses and trains to connect systems and transfer data.
The synergy between IoT and 5G is a fundamental need for smart city development and will do wonders to provide people with a high quality of life.
What is a smart public transportation system?
A smart public transport system is a connected solution that allows passengers to enjoy their travels easily and conveniently. The main elements of a smart public transport system consist of 5G, cloud computing, smart bus stops, smart public buses, and remote users using mobile or web applications.
Users can get real-time bus schedule and tracking information, so they can book seats in advance and arrive at the bus stop on time. You will be able to create a profile on the mobile app and choose from different packages and discounts. Their account is also linked to their bank card or credit card, and the fare is automatically debited.
At smart bus stops, all information is displayed on the screen for the convenience of passengers. All these systems are connected through his 5G, IoT and cloud computing, ensuring the high capacity, accuracy and durability of the system.
Benefits of transforming public transport systems
The synergy between 5G and IoT brings many benefits to public transportation. We will discuss the most interesting ones here.
1. Cooperation with smart parking
Smart public transportation can also work together with smart parking solutions. Public transport managers can easily park their buses without any problem once they have the opportunity of smart parking. You can reserve your parking spot and pay for your parking online. You can also see whether other buses are parked or departing through the mobile app and manage your route accordingly.
Combining data from both systems also allows detailed analysis of traffic patterns, providing statistics on areas that require high mobility, parking spaces, and number of buses. Therefore, this information is useful for developing smart infrastructure.
2. Smooth commute
IoT and 5G allow you to design smart public transportation systems. The Smart Bus Tracker mobile app allows users to see which buses and trains are available on their route. You can search and make reservations from your mobile phone without the hassle of physically searching.
Not only that, you can also pay weekly, daily, or monthly fees online at your convenience. Students also have access to various discounts and packages, making public transport very affordable and appropriate.
3. Real-time updates
IoT provides real-time monitoring and allows users to track the buses they have booked. With GPS tracking and real-time estimation, you can monitor how long it takes your bus to arrive at a nearby station. Therefore, you can arrive at the stop without waiting for a long time.
4. Seat reservation
One of the big problems with public transportation is that you can’t get a guaranteed seat. Passengers are forced to stand in stuffy conditions, leading to fatigue, stress and exhaustion. Even with close interactions, the chance of airborne transmission increases.
With our smart public transport system, you can easily book your seat online and find bus schedules and routes. You can easily secure a seat without any hassle and you will not be able to board the bus if the seat is full.
5. Traffic management
When strong and convenient public transportation exists, people prefer buses to solo vehicles. Save money, reduce traffic congestion and fuel consumption.
In addition, by operating buses according to the number of reservations, we can respond to the needs of passengers. Passengers do not stay long at the bus stop to ensure that all seats are occupied, and passengers do not have to stand inside the bus.
Environmental benefits of synergy between 5G and IoT in the transportation sector
The synergy between IoT and 5G will positively contribute to intelligent public transportation systems and play a major role in creating a green environment. Environmental benefits include:
1. Traffic jam
The main reason for revolutionizing the public transport experience is to reduce traffic congestion. Buses and trains can carry more people, taking up less space on the road.
2. Greenhouse gas emissions
According to a UCLA report, public transportation can reduce greenhouse gas emissions by up to 45% compared to private cars. Therefore, authorities should work towards building a strong public transport system.
3. Eco-driving support
Smart public transportation systems provide drivers with real-time feedback on driving behavior such as speed, acceleration, and citations. Monitoring data encourages the adoption of environmentally friendly behaviors, resulting in reduced fuel consumption.
4. Air pollution
Smart public transport systems improve air quality by reducing the number of vehicles on the road. It must be implemented in areas where air pollution is a serious concern.
Examples of smart public transportation systems
One of the biggest examples of smart public transportation systems is in Seoul, South Korea. The company’s subway system is equipped with smart payment and reservation systems, Wi-Fi, 5G, and virtual assistance. The subway is air conditioned with seat warmers. There are also digital terminals at stations where passengers can search for bus routes and timetables.
To provide a great experience for passengers, the station has a virtual grocery store that resembles the shelves of a real store, displaying images of products and prices. All products are marked with his QR code, so the buyer scans the product to make a purchase and the ordered product is delivered to the reservation address.
Another breakthrough is the New York Metropolitan Transit Authority (MTA) launching a mobile app for public transit users. This app is currently in beta testing to provide you with the best transportation experience. Key features of the app include real-time service alerts, scheduling, saving favorite routes, live bus tracking, travel booking, and more. With this app, passengers can book public transport with one click and contribute to improving the public transport system.
The next generation of smart public transportation
In the future, advanced technologies such as artificial intelligence, holograms, virtual assistance and augmented reality will be integrated into intelligent public transport systems. Also, 5G will be upgraded to his 6G, offering stronger connectivity, frequency and sustainability. Integrating such technologies will help provide the best experience for commuters.
to sum up
One of the major needs to solve the hassles of daily life is travel. Public transportation is one of the most popular ways to commute as it is affordable. 5G and IoT are key assets that will revolutionize public transportation systems.
5G provides powerful internet connectivity and IoT enables the connectivity of various IoT devices and sensors. A smart public transportation system provides a smooth commuting experience for citizens.
Real-time updates and monitoring help you book your bus seat and reach the bus stand on time. A smart public transport system is affordable and convenient for passengers and helps reduce traffic congestion, pollution, and daily work hassles.
