Vodafone’s Safer Transport Platform Successfully Tested on Berlin Roads, Advancing Road Safety Innovations

Vodafone’s Safer Transport Platform Successfully Tested on Berlin Roads, Advancing Road Safety Innovations

(IN BRIEF) Vodafone’s Safer Transport for Europe Platform (STEP) underwent successful public road tests in Berlin, demonstrating its ability to enhance road safety by connecting road users, transport authorities, and infrastructure. Compatible with third-party apps and in-vehicle systems, STEP was tested in real-world scenarios involving pedestrians, cyclists, and emergency vehicles. The trials, conducted using Vodafone’s 5G network and Multi-Edge Computing Servers, achieved ultra-low latency of under 10 milliseconds, enabling real-time data sharing and hazard alerts. Anonymized position data from road users improved safety by preventing collisions in potentially dangerous situations, such as blind spots. Following these tests, Vodafone aims to further develop STEP to integrate with emerging Vehicle-to-Everything (V2X) technologies and autonomous systems, contributing to safer and more efficient roads across Europe.

(PRESS RELEASE) BERKSHIRE, 23-Nov-2024 — /EuropaWire/ — Vodafone’s Safer Transport for Europe Platform (STEP), a cutting-edge solution aimed at enhancing road safety by connecting road users with transport authorities and each other, has undergone successful public road tests in Berlin. The platform showcased seamless interoperability with various Vehicle-to-Everything (V2X) systems during a demonstration event organized by the 5G Automotive Association (5GAA).

Real-World Scenarios and Interoperability

The Berlin trials tested STEP across a variety of real-world scenarios, including interactions with pedestrians, cyclists, construction workers, and emergency vehicles requiring priority passage. Crucially, STEP is designed to be universally compatible with third-party apps and in-vehicle navigation systems, ensuring accessibility for all road users regardless of their device or platform.

Marika Auramo, CEO of Vodafone Business, emphasized the significance of the trial, stating, “Vodafone is committed to making our roads safer through collaboration with transport and technology partners. This trial demonstrates the critical role of our network in delivering secure, real-time data that can save lives when every millisecond matters.”

Advanced Connectivity for Safer Roads

The trials integrated Vodafone’s STEP platform with traffic networking technologies from LG Electronics and Commsignia, all operating via Vodafone Germany’s 5G network and Deutsche Telekom’s infrastructure. Using real-time data transmitted from pedestrians and cyclists via smartphones, vehicles were alerted to potential hazards, such as a cyclist in a driver’s blind spot.

To ensure user privacy, all position data was anonymized while maintaining secure and accurate transmission.

Ultra-Low Latency and Efficient Data Processing

Data was processed on Multi-Edge Computing Servers, which act as localized mini data centers positioned close to the road. These servers minimized data travel distance, achieving latencies of under 10 milliseconds. They also facilitated seamless data exchange between different digital traffic safety platforms, paving the way for integrated and efficient traffic systems.

A Safer Future for Road Users

Following the successful demonstration, Vodafone plans to further explore STEP’s applications in enhancing future road safety systems. As V2X technologies and autonomous driving solutions become more prevalent, innovations like STEP promise to deliver a safer, more informed experience for all road users.

By combining advanced 5G connectivity, robust data security, and user-centric design, STEP represents a major step forward in reducing road accidents and improving transportation systems across Europe.

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SOURCE: Vodafone Group