The U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) has recently unveiled a comprehensive plan to accelerate the use of vehicles equipped with vehicle-to-everything (V2X) technology. This cutting-edge technology allows vehicles to connect with everything around them, including other vehicles, pedestrians, and infrastructure. The goal of this initiative is to enhance road safety and reduce the number of deaths and serious injuries on the nation’s roadways.
According to the plan, a short-term objective is to have V2X deployed on 20% of the National Highway System within the next four years. This percentage is set to increase to 50% between 2029 and 2031, and ultimately reach 100% between 2032 and 2036. The plan also outlines short-term, medium-term, and long-term goals for V2X advancements, involving stakeholders such as cities, original equipment manufacturers (OEMs), technology developers, and government agencies.
The National V2X Development Plan emphasizes the importance of deploying improved wireless connectivity to create a safer, more secure, and efficient transportation system while maintaining privacy and consumer protection. Vehicles equipped with V2X technology can receive crucial information about the location and actions of other road users, traffic conditions, equipment signals, and prevailing roadway conditions. This real-time data can significantly enhance road safety and prevent accidents.
Data from a 2017 National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) report suggests that V2X safety applications could prevent hundreds of thousands of crashes and save thousands of lives annually. For instance, a Tampa Hillsborough Expressway Authority Connected Vehicle Pilot demonstrated that V2X technology could prevent potential pedestrian crashes through Pedestrian Collision Warning applications.
The DOT has been actively working on this plan since 2022, with a draft released in 2023. The federal agency has taken various steps to promote the use of V2X technology, including supporting expedited deployment by the Federal Communications Commission (FCC), providing resources to V2X developers, engaging with stakeholders, and investing in research and development.
The plan emphasizes that meeting the set goals will require commitment and investment from the V2X community. Original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) play a crucial role in deciding the extent to which V2X devices are installed in new vehicles. Collaboration among OEMs, private sector entities, and public agencies is essential for successful V2X deployment. Cybersecurity and privacy principles are also highlighted as critical components for a successful and interoperable V2X deployment.
In conclusion, the U.S. Department of Transportation’s plan to accelerate the deployment of V2X technology is a significant step towards creating a safer and more efficient transportation system. By leveraging the capabilities of V2X technology, the nation can work towards reducing accidents, saving lives, and achieving national transportation goals. Continued coordination, investment, and collaboration among stakeholders will be essential in realizing the full potential of V2X technology in enhancing road safety.