A cutting-edge traffic light technology in Kitchener is providing drivers with advanced information to improve their decision-making at intersections. Miovision, a Kitchener-based global transportation system vendor, recently introduced vehicle-to-everything (V2X) technology in the city.
V2X technology connects traffic light data directly to vehicles, displaying a traffic light icon on the dashboard to inform drivers about upcoming signal changes. This feature includes a countdown to green lights, recommended speeds for making green lights, and warnings for impending red lights. Thomas Bauer, Miovision’s Vice President of V2X, highlighted the stress-reducing benefits of knowing signal status in advance.
The technology, designed as a driving aid for now, offers safety and environmental advantages, particularly for heavy vehicles with longer braking distances. Knowing when to stop helps vehicles save on fuel consumption by providing timely information for speeding up or slowing down at traffic lights.
Initially used for transportation planning by counting vehicles, Miovision expanded its services to include emergency vehicle pre-emption, enabling prioritized passage for emergency vehicles or public transit. The V2X system in Kitchener facilitates the transmission of traffic light data to vehicles through a cellular network, enhancing traffic management efficiency.
According to Bauer, over 90% of Kitchener’s intersections are now equipped with Miovision’s technology. The Region of Waterloo noted that the system, integrated with traffic lights since 2020, utilizes cameras and detection devices to optimize signal operations for various road users.
V2X technology, available in select VW Group vehicles like Audi, Bentley, and Porsche, boasts a global presence covering more than 70,000 intersections across eight countries. For drivers with non-VW Group vehicles, an app is available to connect their cars to this innovative technology, enhancing their driving experience.