NXP Semiconductors N.V. today announced that it is developing a cutting-edge automotive-qualified 3.5G telematics solution to improve traffic management, which can help address the challenge of traffic congestion in Singapore.
Expected to be deployed in 2012, NXP will develop innovative technologies based on NXP’s next-generation Automotive Telematics On-board Platform (ATOP). Singapore will be a test bed for ATOP, leveraging the city’s world-class infrastructure to deliver real-time information via mobile broadband and help reduce traffic congestion.
A state-of-the-art 3.5G prototype, the ATOP module, and the related On-board Unit (OBU) will demonstrate the possibility of multi-virtual mobile SIM encapsulation suited for the purpose of congestion charging. The ATOP module will be securely combined with a number of other additional third-party services, including location-based services and electronic payments.
End users will also see first-hand benefits of this new technology. As drivers are charged based on actual distances traveled, many will reduce the amount of tax they are required to pay. Both drivers and passengers will experience improved mobility as they are provided with optimal driving routes based on real-time traffic situations.
“Governments around the world are battling with stressed transportation networks and are struggling to build sufficient infrastructure to cope with increased traffic. NXP has worked with many governments investing in new, smarter transportation systems and using advanced technologies such as ATOP. These intelligent transportation systems will help cities manage congestion, improve urban environmental conditions, and increase economic competitiveness,” said Jerald Tatel, director of sales and marketing for Automotive, NXP Semiconductors, South APAC.
Security is also a key feature, with banking-grade smart card technology allowing for the safe co-existence of payment and other services, as well as cross-border interoperability. Furthermore, ATOP can incorporate additional features such as virtual vehicle owner registration cards, paperless and tamper-proof road tax, and environmentally friendly paperless parking coupons with remote top-up capabilities.
In Asia’s large, bustling cities, these added features have the potential to alleviate congestion and help manage peak-hour traffic, ultimately helping drivers to save costs and contribute to a greener environment.
Damian Chan, director of electronics at the Economic Development Board said, “I am glad to see that NXP is leveraging Singapore’s strength in electronics R&D, infrastructure and talent to develop and test innovative solutions such as ATOP. This is also testimony to Singapore’s value as a living laboratory to develop solutions to challenges faced by many cities in the face of rapid urbanisation.
NXP’s ATOP development is also in line with EDB’s strategy to develop green electronics and security as new growth areas for Singapore’s electronics industry.”
Increased use of land transportation has made it difficult to control pollution, greenhouse gas emissions, and traffic congestion. Today, transport accounts for about 19 percent of global energy use and 23 percent of energy-related CO2 emissions. These figures are set to rise in the future and given current trends, transport energy use and CO2 emissions are expected to increase nearly 50 percent by 2030 and more than 80 percent by 2050 (Source: LTA master plan report).
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