Traffic - Smart traffic lights to improve traffic in Ellwangen
The country will test traffic light control by Artificial Intelligence (AI) in Ellwangen. From July onwards, traffic will be controlled by AI, the Traffic Ministry announced on Thursday. The application "Yutraffic Fusion" will reportedly be used at twelve traffic lights along the B290 and the South Tangent in Ellwangen. After a six-month test phase, a balance will be drawn.
The system records and models traffic in real-time. With the help of historical and current data, it predicts traffic. Both cars and bicycles, pedestrians and public transportation will be considered, according to a ministry spokesperson. To recognize different traffic participants, the spokesperson added, thermal imaging cameras will be used. Ellwangen is suitable for this, the spokesperson explained, because of its location near the Autobahn. If an accident occurs there, for example, traffic flow will temporarily increase significantly.
"With AI-controlled traffic lights, we are setting new standards for improved traffic flow, fewer emissions, and more safety in road traffic," said Transport Minister Winfried Hermann (Greens) in a statement. The project reportedly costs the country around 200,000 Euros. The program is already in use in London. There, it has shortened travel times by up to 20 percent and reduced stops by approximately 15 percent. The goal in Ellwangen is to reduce travel time by 20 percent as well. The spokesperson stressed that the signal control must at least maintain the same quality as a conventionally programmed one.
Press release of the Transport Ministry
In Baden-Württemberg, specifically in Ellwangen, the Ministry of Transport is implementing an AI-driven traffic light control system. The trial run of this system, using the "Yutraffic Fusion" application, will commence at twelve traffic lights on the B290 and the South Tangent in Ellwangen.
The AI system in Ellwangen will employ thermal imaging cameras to differentiate between various traffic participants, such as cars, bicycles, pedestrians, and public transportation, to optimize traffic flow and ensure safety.
