Make crucial traffic data available digitally, Transport Committee says

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Data on speed limits, roadworks or accidents should be available in digital format, to ensure road users are safer and better informed.

On Wednesday, Transport Committee MEPs voted on new intelligent road transport systems rules to boost digitalisation in the transport sector, to better connect different mobility apps, and to ensure wider data sharing. Intelligent transport systems (ITS) apply information and communication technologies, such as, journey planner or eCall, to make mobility safer, more efficient and comfortable.

More data for mobility apps

The Transport and Tourism Committee supports extending the scope of the new rules to cover more emerging services, such as multimodal information, booking and ticketing services, communication between cars and infrastructure, and automated mobility. However, MEPs want more crucial road and traffic data to be made available digitally and through an appropriate user interface. In addition to speed limits, traffic circulation plans or roadworks, they suggest the inclusion of data on alternative fuels infrastructure, accidents, one way streets or poor road conditions.

Main principles

MEPs want the deployment of ITS services to be technologically neutral, not discriminate against particular road users, and list the environmental impact of mobility options offered to consumers.

In order to ensure smooth transport across borders, the Transport Committee also urges EU member states to better cooperate when deploying ITS services, through the sharing of best practices and joint projects.

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“Intelligent Transport Systems will save lives, so we need to ensure they are technology neutral, compatible and interoperable with other applications. We should also avoid discrimination in access to ITS applications and services, keeping in mind the needs of vulnerable users,” said rapporteur Rovana Plumb (S&D, RO).

Next steps

The draft negotiating mandate was approved by 39 votes in favour and eight abstentions. Transport Committee MEPs also backed a decision to start talks with member states on the final shape of the legislation by 42 votes in favour and four abstentions, once plenary has given its green light.