Bringing human intelligence to machines through AI has changed the face of many industries. The transportation industry is no exception. Whether it relates to getting people and goods across the city or across the globe, advanced technology plays a huge role. Here are just a few of the innovative ways that artificial intelligence is taking the transportation industry to new levels.

Smart Cameras and Sensors

One of the biggest frustrations in transportation is traffic. Congestion can cause critical delays in getting people to their destination and in getting products delivered to where they need to be. Accidents and unexpected road blockages are difficult to predict, but with new AI technology, this has become easier to do. Sensors and cameras can collect and analyze moment-to-moment data that can make transportation run much more smoothly. Commuters and transporters can get real-time updates to the quickest routes, and avoid the frustration of delays. These updates can be integrated into fleet GPS tracking devices to allow for route corrections and notification of potential delays.

Self-Driving Vehicles

Driverless vehicles have many applications within the transportation industry. Once thought to be an impossibility, these vehicles have already begun to be utilized in some areas of the world. The technology is still being perfected in order to provide the safest trip possible, but these vehicles will surely continue to grow in popularity. Currently, many autonomous vehicles still have a driver inside to take control in case of emergency, but eventually, these cars and trucks will not need a driver at all. The transportation applications are endless for a vehicle that can be controlled remotely. A human driver has limitations on how long they can drive, so the ability to taxi people or transport goods without a driver is much more efficient.

Drone Taxis

Drone taxis are pilotless helicopters that can help travelers avoid traffic congestion altogether. Flying taxis can get commuters to their destination faster and more efficiently with a whole lot less frustration. In addition, a reduction in traffic can lead directly to a reduction in carbon emissions and far less impact on the environment. With super-efficient batteries in place of fossil fuel based systems, these drones will help reduce carbon footprints as well. Utilizing aerial vehicles can also be a huge money saver when it comes to infrastructure planning. With the use of more flying vehicles there will be fewer ground vehicles. Less money will need to be invested in highways, roads and signage. Although drone taxis may sound like something too futuristic to be relevant, many major brands have already begun to invest in the technology and to develop plans to get into the market.

Predictive Programs

Being able to see into the future would be a definite game-changer in the transportation industry. The sooner potential delays can be identified, the sooner contingency plans can be developed. Particularly in the airline industry, delays can result in huge financial losses. Canceling or rescheduling flights for customers results in lost profits that can be hard to make up for. With advances in predictive technology, companies can get a peek a little further into the future. AI programs can analyze a greater amount of data and continuously monitor changes in conditions. Taking into account weather, technical issues, and even historical data can give these predictive programs a better picture of what may cause delays. This will result in fewer cancellations, less wait time for customers, and less money lost.

Advanced artificial intelligence used to seem like something only possible in the movies, but it is making its way into our daily lives faster than ever. Smart applications and devices bring convenience and efficiency to completing everyday tasks. The transportation industry is essential to the world economy and infrastructure. With the addition of these new technologies, the industry continues to grow and become more cost-effective and energy efficient. Smart cameras, sensors, self-driving vehicles, drone taxis and predictive programs are just a few of many AI enhancements that are driving the transportation industry into the future.