we all depend heavily on transport in our everyday lives. however, ever-increasing road traffic generates serious social problems: congestion of road networks and urban areas, damage to the environment and to public health, energy waste and, above all, accidents. 40.000 people die every year on europe's roads and many more are injured.
fortunately, advanced information, communication and other technologies [e.g. mems - a wiki] can now be incorporated into onboard intelligent vehicle systems, offering new solutions to today’s transport problems.
these high-tech systems have great potential to:
• help drivers prevent or avoid traffic accidents
• mitigate the consequences of accidents that do occur
• provide drivers with real time information about traffic on road networks, thereby avoiding congestion
• find the most efficient routes for any journey
• optimise engine performance, thus improving overall energy efficiency.
visit the european union's i2010 initiative to learn more or participate in the iCar quiz [till 15 feb 2008].