Intelligent Transport Systems UK (ITS UK) has published its ‘Future of Transport Manifesto’, setting out the transport technology sector’s key priorities for the next government.
The trade body, which describes itself as the voice of the transport technology industry, said the manifesto sets out recommendations ‘for whichever party forms the next Government’.
The 10 recommendations are grouped under four headings: Connectivity and Autonomy; Integration; Sustainability and Society; and Industry Growth.
ITS UK chief executive Max Sugarman (pictured at Traffex) said: ‘The use of data, AI and innovation can radically reshape our transport network, helping to create greener, safer, more seamless and more cost-effective journeys across different modes – as well as creating economic growth, investment and jobs around the country.
‘For whoever forms the next Government, ITS UK’s Manifesto sets outs clear recommendations on how we can utilise technology for a better transport network.
'Whether it’s through greater regulatory support for eScooters and Demand Responsive Transport, or working with transport authorities to implement greater data services,
'Mobility as a Service platforms and more effective procurement processes – the Government has a key opportunity over the coming years to make the UK a world-leader in transport technology.’
The recommendations are:
A. Connectivity and Autonomy
1. Make greater use of the significant amount of data available on the transport network to improve customer service and drive cost efficiencies, by focusing on breaking down siloes between government, at all levels, and industry.
2. Take advantage of the new regulatory framework for autonomous vehicles to ensure the UK is able to become a global leader in self-driving technology.
B. Integration
3. Commit to the production of a UK-wide Mobility as a Service (MaaS) Strategy, with consideration across all transport policy, which local areas will use to ensure that their MaaS implementations are interconnected, compatible and affordable.
4. Utilise industry expertise to speed up the roll out of smart ticketing, supported by a commitment to fares parity.
5. Introduce a MicroMobility Bill to create a new regulatory framework for e-scooters and other forms of micromobility.
C. Sustainability and Society
6. Deliver a roadmap to the gradual introduction of mobility pricing, that incentivises the fairer and sustainable use of the transport network.
7. Leverage technology to achieve the UK’s transport safety ambitions. This will require the maintenance and renewal of current technology, alongside the introduction of new solutions along the network.
8. Support Demand Responsive Transport by putting it on an independent regulatory footing with equivalent VAT treatment to other modes of public transport.
D. Industry Growth
9. Support a different approach to the procurement of transport technology that supports funding for operational expenditure for local authorities.
10. Prioritise a home-grown intelligent transport industry as a key export of strategic value to the UK.
