A new mobility revolution is sweeping the globe. Connected and autonomous vehicles are likely to become a common feature on Irish roads within the next decade, along with the increased use of electric and shared vehicles.
Collectively, ACES (autonomous/connected/electric/shared) will have a major impact on the Irish transport network. Like many countries globally, ACES will introduce an era of unprecedented change. Therefore, it is vital for Ireland to consider how we manage and take advantage of this new technology.
ACES presents many opportunities, from making our roads safer to reducing emission levels, as well as the added implications of increasing high end job creation and reducing social isolation. In order to maximise the benefits presented by ACES, actions are required across various areas. This thought piece provides an overview of some of the steps we can take in order to prepare for the arrival of ACES in Ireland.
Key actions are detailed across the following areas:
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Financial implications and economic growth;
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Mobility as a service;
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Electrification;
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Infrastructure;
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Testing;
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Data management and transparency;
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Data arbitration and governance;
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Data aggregation;
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The role of government.
Fundamentally, our recommendations also reflect that ACES is not just about the technology itself. More importantly, it's about putting the travelling public at the centre of all mobility choices and using emerging technology, as outlined in this thought piece, to make a positive impact on all our lives.