Driving the transport sector’s energy transition by accelerating digitalisation
Rapid urbanisation and global efforts to reduce carbon emissions have led to increased demand for smarter transport solutions and pressure to implement them quickly. Leading energy solutions provider Equans uses digitalisation as a key tool to tailor its energy transition strategy to the specific goals and constraints of the transport sector.
With innovative digital mobility solutions such as Navineo and Icomera, Equans is helping to accelerate the transition to smarter transport networks that not only reduce pollution but also improve the user experience for both operators and passengers.
Transport sectors that stand to benefit from digitalisation
From public transport to freight logistics, transport systems around the world are expected to become cleaner, greener and more flexible to meet the needs of modern cities. Time is of the essence, but aside from the environmental imperative, this transformation also offers long-term benefits for the transport industry.
Public transport
Public transport has much to gain from digitalisation. Technologies like real-time data systems, smart ticketing and enhanced passenger information systems are dramatically improving service reliability and efficiency. With these digital tools, operators can provide the real-time status of services and help passengers make informed travel decisions. In addition, the integration of smart ticketing systems simplifies fare collection, reduces operating costs and makes public transport more accessible
Freight and logistics
Digitalisation is also bringing unprecedented supply chain visibility and control to the freight and logistics sector. GPS tracking and IoT sensors allow companies to monitor the location and condition of goods in real time. These technologies can be used to optimise route management, reduce delays and improve overall efficiency. Furthermore, by using predictive analytics, companies can anticipate potential supply chain disruptions and take proactive measures to ensure on-time deliveries.
Urban mobility and traffic management
Urban mobility has seen significant improvements thanks to digital solutions. Adaptive traffic lights and Intelligent Transport Systems (ITS) help to manage traffic flows more efficiently, thereby reducing congestion and emissions. These technologies, which are often deployed in smart cities , use real-time data to adjust signal timing based on traffic patterns, leading to smoother traffic flows and improved air quality. In addition, digital mobility platforms integrate different modes of transport into a seamless user experience, encouraging the use of public transport and reducing the reliance on private vehicles.
Rail and intermodal transport
Digitalisation is radically transforming rail and intermodal transport, particularly through the use of predictive maintenance and data analytics. By analysing data from sensors on trains and tracks, operators can predict when maintenance work is needed, preventing costly breakdowns and service disruption. Digital tools also facilitate seamless connections between different modes of transport, making intermodal transport more efficient and attractive for passengers and freight operators.
Airports and aviation
The aviation sector is using digital systems to optimise operations and improve the passenger experience. Automated check-in systems, real-time flight tracking and digital baggage handling solutions are among the many examples of how digitalisation is streamlining airport operations. These innovations not only improve efficiency but also safety and security, making air travel more reliable and convenient for passengers.
Technologies helping the transport sector shift up a gear
The integration of advanced technologies is revolutionising the way we move people and goods. There are specific technologies driving this change, and solutions such as Equans' Navineo and Icomera are helping the transport sector to accelerate this transformation at a time when the pressure is on and there is a genuine 'need for speed'.
Internet of Things
By enabling the real-time monitoring of vehicles, infrastructure and passengers, IoT devices help operators make data-driven decisions that improve service quality and operational efficiency. In public transport, IoT sensors monitor the condition of vehicles, enabling predictive maintenance and reducing downtime. In freight logistics, they are used to track shipments in real time and ensure transparency and accountability throughout the supply chain.
Big Data and analytics
Big Data is changing the way transport networks operate. By collecting and analysing vast amounts of data about traffic patterns, operators can optimise routes, reduce fuel consumption and improve the reliability of their services. Cities can use traffic data to adjust traffic lights and prevent congestion at peak times. In freight logistics, data analytics enables companies to streamline their supply chains, reduce costs and shorten delivery times.
Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning
AI and Machine Learning technologies are being used to develop self-driving vehicles, intelligent traffic management systems and predictive maintenance tools. AI-powered algorithms can analyse vast amounts of data to facilitate real-time decisions, such as re-routing vehicles to prevent traffic jams. In public transport, AI is used to optimise timetables and give passengers more visibility over their journey. For example, AI-supported algorithms can analyse historical data and real-time conditions to provide passengers with accurate travel time predictions, personalised journey suggestions and alternative routes in the event of delays.
Digital platforms and Mobility-as-a-Service (MaaS)
Digital platforms and MaaS are redefining the way people interact with transport systems. MaaS platforms incorporate multiple means of transport into a single user-friendly interface, allowing passengers to seamlessly plan and pay for their journeys. These platforms promote the use of public transport and shared mobility services, reduce the need for private cars and contribute to more sustainable urban mobility.
Navineo
Equans' Navineo solution is a comprehensive digital tool that combines Computer-Aided Dispatch/Automatic Vehicle Location (CAD/AVL) and Intelligent Transportation System (ITS) to optimise public transport and improve the passenger experience. Its range of features enables real-time monitoring, predictive maintenance and enhanced passenger information systems.
Navineo key features:
- Real-time data monitoring of vehicle locations, operational status and passenger flows. This enables more efficient management of public transport networks, reducing delays and improving service reliability.
- Predictive maintenance using data analysis from IoT sensors. Navineo allows operators to predict when maintenance is required, reducing vehicle downtime and improving overall fleet efficiency.
- Advanced passenger information systems that provide passengers with real-time information to help them better plan their journey.
- Customisable solutions designed to meet the specific needs of different transport networks. Navineo offers a range of customisable features that can be adapted to local conditions and requirements.
Icomera
An Equans, Icomera's in-vehicle connectivity solutions use cutting-edge technology to support the transport industry's sustainability efforts by facilitating real-time data analysis and efficient resource management.
Icomera key features:
- Integrated connectivity platforms to improve operational efficiency and sustainability.
- Real-time data analysis for improved resource management and decision making.
- High-speed communications with SureWAN™ technology and 5G routers.
- Reliable Wi-Fi and on-board services to enhance the passenger experience.
- Route optimisation and vehicle performance monitoring to reduce energy consumption and emissions, supporting greener operations.
Digitalisation: securing the transport sector’s sustainability goals
As cities continue to grow, so too do carbon emissions. This seems inevitable, but nothing could be further from the truth. Digitalisation in the transport sector not only improves efficiency and reliability but also paves the way for smarter and cleaner mobility solutions, helping to achieve sustainability goals faster.
Equans is harnessing the full power of digital technologies such as IoT, Big Data, AI and digital platforms to develop innovative digital solutions that ensure that transport systems are not only prepared for the challenges of the future but can also benefit from them.