Opening up the way to smarter transportation
Written by; Muhammad Nur Fairuz Ilias – ALTEL Solutions Manager

The introduction of 5G and its possibilities has enabled things previously thought as sci-fi to now become a reality. For example, one very likely outcome is the creation of ‘smart transportation’.

Collaborating with different partners, Altel has been developing autonomous technology connectivity and is championing this to provide a better sustainable future.

The technology is demonstrated on an autonomous shuttle buggy which uses deep learning or machine learning, artificial intelligence (AI) combined with 3D Lidar (Light Detection and Ranging) sensors to enable it to navigate around its environment, while avoiding obstacles.

With this technology ready to roll out, the final stage to get it across the line are regulations and policy making in making this accessible. Some industries have already expressed interest in implementing this in their respective fields of tourism, manufacturing, while others see this as an opportunity to create a safer work environment for all.

Perhaps then, the officials and the public might be convinced in the one of the biggest stages of them all; the 2020 Summer Olympics held in Tokyo. Billed as the most futuristic Olympics yet, Japan will be using autonomous vehicles to assist in helping athletes and tourist get to their respective venues, and initial tests have already shown strong positive indication that the future is not too far!

Close to home, Singapore has also begun testing autonomous shuttle services under their smart city initiatives. Test sites now have expanded beyond research sites, as the vehicles cover more than 1,000km of public roads. Heavy emphasis on safety has been the government’s main priority with a bigger picture painted towards public acceptance of self-driving cars.

These case studies provide plenty of key learning points in developing policies and regulation, designing infrastructure and creating awareness and acceptance with the public.

In conclusion, we believe that a strong foundation and deep study in this area will give us a strong head start in creating smarter and safer cities, and perhaps the utopia of living in a Star Trek like world is not too far away!