Intelligent traffic systems to reduce congestion

EPSRC-funded researchers are beginning to understand the causes of 'phantom traffic jams' using sophisticated computer modelling systems.

The research, led by Professor Eddie Wilson at the University of Bristol, will help authorities control traffic by reducing the risk of a traffic jam that has no apparent cause. 

The research shows that phantom jams occur when traffic flow exceeds a certain threshold level so the way to prevent them is to control the flow using real-time data to track and analyse traffic.

In addition to the research at Bristol, EPSRC is working with the Technology Strategy Board and the Department of Transport, investing more than £3 million in its Future Intelligent Transport Systems programme (FITS). The programme features a wide range of research to tackle the problem of congestion on Britain's roads which costs the nation around £8 billion a year according to the CBI.