Road safety remains a major priority for governments and authorities nationwide. Last year there were 1,123 road crash deaths in Australia. This was an increase of 2.6 percent on 2020. Pinpointing exactly why is complex, but what we do know is that driving patterns are changing, the mix of vehicles on our roads is evolving, and congestion is consistent – if not on the rise.
A key opportunity to improve road safety in Australia is a new category of technologies known as mobility-as-a-service (MaaS). MaaS solutions connect multiple modes of transport and allows users to plan, choose, and pay for journeys via a single application.
Bringing safety to the fore
As Australia’s leader in traffic data and mobility technologies, we have developed Omniway, a new and proven MaaS platform. Unlike existing journey planning solutions that provide great A to B options, Omniway is an all-encompassing application that brings safety to the fore, and is particularly valuable for micromobility and bike users.
At the heart of the platform is a unique algorithm, which collates and analyses multiple data points, such as road type, traffic stress levels, average road speed, and terrain.
Based on the preference of the user, this information is used to map a route which is the quietest (least traffic), flattest (easiest terrain) or fastest (road type). This is supplemented by voice guidance and turn-by-turn navigation.
Proven safety technology
Omniway’s algorithm was methodically tested and proven as part of a Sydney trial, which resulted in the recent launch of our journey planning app for cyclists – known as ridePlan.
While cycling is the first commercial application of the algorithm, we are now looking at how this technology can be applied to other forms of transport including cars and e-modes of transport.
Beyond transport, a key area in which we see this technology playing a vital role is in pedestrian safety – especially for more vulnerable community members.
Using this algorithm, pedestrians can navigate routes more safely. This could be at night or in locations users are unfamiliar with.
Taking safety one step at a time
We constantly look at innovative ways we can use data to deliver safer travel experiences.
For example, data that tells us which streets are well lit could help us determine a safer route for a user late at night. Similarly, data on business opening hours could help users understand which routes are busier – helping them to avoid quiet streets.
At this stage, we are hopeful that the success of ridePlan will help pave the way for future applications which help users prioritise safety. This technology has enormous potential, and feeds on high-quality data to determine new features and product refinement.
Partnering between government departments and authorities and private enterprise and industry is, and will continue to be, critical. Opening up their datasets and sources so they can be integrated with new safety-focused platforms and solutions will deliver safer and more convenient mobility options for our communities.
We build the very best in mobility technology to improve how the world gets around. From mobility for individuals to game-changing tools for business and governments – our best-in-class data and services are recognised by industry leading brands the world over.
