Ride-sharing services have caused rapid transformation in the transportation industry, but that will pale in comparison to the radical change that autonomous vehicles are likely to cause, writes transportation expert Samuel Schwartz. Vehicle designer Dan Sturges has said the elimination of the steering wheel could significantly alter vehicle design, and autonomous vehicles might mean that motorcycles will be considered too big of a safety risk.
The National Capital Region Transportation Planning Board approved the long-term Visualize 2045 transportation plan that includes a list of 600 potential highway and transit projects for the Washington, D.C., area. While it can evolve over time, Visualize 2045 already has drawn criticism for not emphasizing future technology and for prioritizing roadways over transit.
Fleet-management software has increased drivers' efficiency and safety, Verizon Connect says, citing the technology's role in reducing speeding and other forms of "harsh driving." The telecom's telematics arm conducted an analysis that concluded, among other findings, that deployment of connected vehicles curbed speeding by 71% in the first month.
French startup Zoov's bike-sharing system will fit 20 locked bikes in the space of a parked car, producing as little interference with pedestrians and automobiles as possible. When the service begins in November, Zoov's app will allow riders to reserve bikes, input destinations for price estimations unlock them.
As electric vehicle technology continues to evolve, companies are beginning to explore battery swaps as an alternative to recharging stations. Chinese carmaker NIO is leading the way with stations appearing across China that can replace dozens of electric car batteries in the time it would take one to recharge.
International Bridge, Tunnel and Turnpike Association CEO Patrick Jones said states will be taking the lead with regard to innovative ways of addressing infrastructure funding. For example, Rhode Island recently adopted interstate tolls for semitrailers, and Oregon is testing a per-mile vehicle fee.
