Cutting-edge connected and automated vehicle technology trials will soon begin in Victoria, as the Andrews Labor Government works to make our roads safer into the future.
Minister for Roads Jaala Pulford today announced on-road testing will get underway in an Australian-first trial of connected vehicle technology.
The trial uses advanced technology to connect vehicles directly as well as optimised 4G mobile networks to connect vehicles to one another and to traffic management centres with cloud servers using “Cellular Vehicle-to-Everything (V2X)” technology.
Cellular V2X is a new technology with a customised version of 4G for connected vehicles rather than mobile phones.
The project is researching cars fitted with this technology under controlled conditions and is testing several road safety features including Red-light Violator Warnings and Pedestrian Alert Right-Turn Assist.
Trials started in late 2018 to test concept technology on controlled tracks, and on-road testing will soon begin on metropolitan and regional roads to help shape how this technology could be fitted to vehicles in the future.
The project is a partnership led by Telstra and Lexus Australia and is funded by a $3.5 million grant from the Labor Government’s Connected and Automated Vehicle Trial Grants Program.
The grant program is managed by VicRoads and funded by the TAC through the Towards Zero Action Plan, which supports a range of initiatives to benefit road safety on roads across Victoria.
Quotes attributable to Minister for Roads, Minister for Road Safety and the TAC Jaala Pulford
“We’re trialling cutting-edge technology like this to make our roads safer into the future.”
“Victoria leading the nation in connected and automated vehicles – this technology will be critical in making roads safer not only here but across Australia.”
Quote attributable to VicRoads Chief Executive Robyn Seymour
“Connected and automated vehicles will play a huge part in reducing lives lost and serious injuries on our roads – that’s why we’re getting ready to implement this technology to start making a big impact on our roads.”
Quote attributable to Transport Accident Commission Director Road Safety Samantha Cockfield
“Technology already plays a pivotal role in road safety and that is only going to increase over time – that’s why it is important we continue exploring the lifesaving potential of connected and automated vehicle technologies.”
Reviewed 19 August 2020