ASPI, the Italian motorway operator, is embarking on a new phase of projects focused on autonomous driving. Following the successful implementation of the Intelligent Roads system on the A1 motorway, ASPI has initiated testing on a new system that enables vehicles to communicate with the infrastructure and maintain autonomous driving capabilities even without satellite signals. Two trials have already been conducted, one in a controlled environment and the other in the "Le Croci" tunnel. Further tests are scheduled on open traffic sections of the A8 and A26 motorways.
The Intelligent Roads projects form part of the "Mercury" Program, an innovation-focused initiative involving all companies within the ASPI Group. The program aims to enhance safety and embrace the revolutionary changes brought about by decarbonization, digitalization, and new transportation services.
Leading the charge in implementing infrastructure-supported autonomous driving is Movyon, the research and innovation center of the ASPI Group. Collaborating with the Polytechnic University of Milan, Movyon has developed a groundbreaking technology that enables wireless communication between vehicles and Roadside Units (RSUs) distributed along the road network. This technology facilitates precise positioning and consistent automation, even in areas with limited or no satellite signal coverage. The tests have showcased the potential for vehicles, equipped with the necessary infrastructure support, to operate autonomously, reaching Level 3 automation in tunnels or other signal-challenged environments.
Roberto Tomasi, CEO of Autostrade per l'Italia, acknowledges the transformative nature of the road transport sector, which encompasses trends like electric vehicles, digital mobility services, connectivity, and autonomous driving. Through cutting-edge trials, Autostrade per l'Italia aims to create safer, innovative, and connected infrastructure. The Mercury program supports the development of autonomous vehicles while continuously improving reliability and safety standards.
Lorenzo Rossi, CEO of Movyon, emphasizes their commitment to enabling a major mobility revolution. Movyon's innovative solutions leverage advanced technologies and utilize the existing communication devices along the motorway network. By integrating the infrastructure's sensor and monitoring systems, which provide comprehensive real-time data on traffic and safety, vehicles can operate with heightened reliability and safety, accelerating the adoption of autonomous driving.
Cooperative Intelligent Transport Systems (C-ITS) facilitate continuous data exchange between vehicles and infrastructure, enhancing traffic safety and flow. This enables vehicles to communicate with each other (V2V) and with motorway control centers (V2I), promoting a seamless and efficient transportation experience. As infrastructure development progresses, autonomous driving will continue to improve performance, efficiency, safety, and comfort. The digitalization of the road network will enable vehicles to receive enhanced information, even in adverse conditions like low visibility or obstacles.
The impact of these advancements extends beyond motorways, potentially revolutionizing urban mobility. By leveraging Movyon's technological innovations, connectivity and data exchange can be extended to urban environments, transforming the way people move within cities. The integration of intelligent infrastructure and autonomous vehicles promises to redefine transportation systems, making them safer, more efficient, and seamlessly connected.
Autostrade per l'Italia and Movyon are driving the future of autonomous driving in Italy. Their pioneering efforts, supported by the Mercury program, aim to create a transportation ecosystem where autonomous vehicles and intelligent infrastructure work hand in hand. By embracing innovation and cutting-edge technologies, Italy is poised to lead the way in shaping the future of mobility, ensuring safer and more connected journeys for all.
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