We develop new communications, localization, and sensing concepts and techniques to protect vulnerable road users (VRU) - towards zero fatality vision in road traffic. We will demonstrate these concepts and techniques in road traffic by 2027.
In recent years both technological developments and research activities in the fields of Intelligent Transport Systems (ITS) have primarily focussed on motorised transport. This has assisted in the decrease of road traffic fatalities, particularly amongst passenger car occupants. However, Vulnerable Road Users (VRUs), such as pedestrians, cyclists and motorcyclists have not enjoyed the same decrease in fatalities. Together, they account for 68% of the fatalities in urban areas. Motorcyclists account for 16% of fatalities, which is much higher than their contribution to traffic. It is therefore clear that, in the context of ITS cooperative systems, VRUs have to be taken into account for improving the overall safety and to decrease the fatalities in both urban and non-urban areas.