A "Smart Highway" is a networked, modernized road infrastructure system that integrates cutting-edge technology to improve transportation security, efficiency, and sustainability. It integrates multiple sensors, communication networks, and intelligent technology to create a road environment that is responsive and well-informed. Numerous sensor technologies, such as cameras, radar, and lidar, are embedded within a road network to form the core of a Smart Highway. These sensors collect real-time data on the weather, road hazards, and traffic flow, allowing for prompt identification and resolution of any issues. These data are transmitted to a centralized control center, where they are analyzed and utilized to improve traffic management strategies.
Smart highways employ communication networks that enable seamless interaction between vehicles, infrastructure, and traffic management systems. This enables accurate route recommendations, real-time traffic updates, and collision avoidance systems.
Annually, the number of new automobiles purchased by private consumers continues to increase. The substandard quality of the transportation infrastructure in many nations is the single most significant factor contributing to the increase in the number of automobiles purchased worldwide. Moreover, as a direct consequence of urbanization and globalization, individuals now have access to larger sums of money to invest in their initiatives. Due to the increased number of vehicles on the road, traffic is becoming increasingly difficult to navigate, especially in urban areas. Consequently, there has been an increase in the demand for intelligent highways and roads that can monitor the congestion on each road and reroute the traffic flow to make travel more productive and enjoyable.
Electrification, renewable energy sources, and enhanced user safety have aided advanced technology development. The transportation industry has collaborated to develop a vast array of cutting-edge technologies, including wind-powered streetlights, solar-powered roads, and interactive illumination, all of which have contributed to creating smarter and safer streets. For instance, HP Lubricants and Leo Burnett India collaborated to design a system with "roads that honk." This was the result of their productive collaboration. The 'roads that honk' method involves strategically placing Smart Life poles before abrupt turns. These structures can communicate with and alert drivers of approaching vehicles. Other technologies, such as Electron's electric charging lanes, self-healing concrete roads, and solar-paved highways, would present many development opportunities for the smart highway industry.
Asia-Pacific is the most significant global smart highway market shareholder and is estimated to exhibit a CAGR of 21.3% over the forecast period. Numerous initiatives for smart roads in growing nations like China, Singapore, Korea, and others provide support for the market in the Asia-Pacific region. Increasing urban needs, technology maturity, and government support for smart highways have all contributed to the region's rise.
Furthermore, governments in rising nations like China and India, which have the greatest second road network, are implementing smart motorways to give drivers a memorable driving experience. The market is also growing due to numerous government initiatives in various Asian nations to develop smart cities and highways. The market is also being driven by several government initiatives that have been initiated in developing nations like Japan and India to reduce air pollution and enhance safety on mountain routes with a high potential for disaster.
North America is anticipated to exhibit a CAGR of 14.7% over the forecast period. The U.S. and Canada's respective smart highway markets are examined. The rising demand for smart roads would create expansion prospects for market participants in several North American developed economies. Government support for linked and innovative transportation also contributes significantly to market expansion. Due to the presence of key market participants, technical know-how, and rising demand for smart highways for effective, safe, and time-saving transportation, North America is one of the industry's main regions.
Additionally, the market is also growing due to several government attempts to strengthen roadside enforcement operations through improved screening and automation of vehicle compliance checks. For instance, the U.S. launched the smart roadside program, which offers improved traffic and road conditions data to help commercial vehicle route planning and enhance access to intermodal ports, urban pick-up points, and delivery locations. The market is expected to increase due to numerous investments made by various businesses in developing smart roads in the United States and Canada to enhance the safety, mobility, and effectiveness of vehicle movement and activities on the roadway.
The key players in the global smart highway market are ABB Ltd, ALE International, AT&T Inc., Cisco System Inc., IBM Corporation, Huawei Technologies Co. Ltd., LG CSN, Honeywell International Inc., Schneider Electric, and SE Siemens AG.