A new report from Intelligent Transport Systems UK (ITS UK), authored by Coventry University, has urged government and industry to prioritise digital connectivity infrastructure as the backbone of the UK’s future transport network.
As the UK moves towards an increasingly connected transport system, spanning everything from connected and automated vehicles (CAVs) to micromobility schemes and onboard Wi-Fi, the need for reliable, high-speed and secure connectivity has never been greater. The report emphasises that without a robust digital foundation, the UK risks slowing progress towards an integrated, safe and efficient transport ecosystem.
Building a digitally connected transport future
The report highlights how digital transport connectivity will be central to enabling Connected and Cooperative Automated Mobility (CCAM) services, data-driven infrastructure, and seamless travel across all modes. It outlines five key recommendations designed to accelerate deployment and innovation across the sector:
- Incentivise Mobile Network Operators (MNOs) to invest in 5G network slicing solutions that can support critical transport communications.
- Target government funding towards research and development (R&D) projects with clear rollout and scale-up potential.
- Balance investment between long-term innovation and short-term, high-impact projects.
- Promote research and deployment of network slicing technologies tailored to transport’s specific connectivity needs.
- Invest in workforce upskilling and R&D to overcome the technical challenges of connected infrastructure for CAVs and CCAM.
Supported by a working group including Coventry City Council, Jacobs, Vodafone and others, the report underscores the need for cross-sector collaboration to achieve a digitally enabled transport network.
Industry leaders call for urgent action
Max Sugarman, Chief Executive of ITS UK, said: “Digital connectivity will underpin the future of transport, across all parts of the UK and all modes. If we are serious about utilising the latest technology in the sector, we need to ensure our digital infrastructure is ready. This report sets out a way forward, including through the logical slicing of the 5G network, and calls on Government to redouble efforts to ensure we have the connectivity required to support technological change on the network.”
Soufiene Djahel, Professor in CAVs at Coventry University, added: “Ensuring robust digital transport connectivity is vital to the safe and efficient deployment of CAM and CCAM services. To accelerate nationwide adoption, we must address key challenges such as bandwidth limitations, latency and reliability. Without swift action, these barriers could delay the seamless integration of connected mobility technologies.”
A connected transport revolution
The report reinforces that digital infrastructure investment is essential to achieving the UK’s ambition for smarter, safer and more sustainable mobility. As the transport sector embraces automation, electrification and data-led innovation, digital connectivity will form the critical link uniting every element of the digital transport ecosystem, from autonomous vehicles to intelligent infrastructure.
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