Introduction

COP26 continues this week as parties gather to discuss how global carbon emissions can be reduced. The second in our four-part #RoadToNetZero blog series, explores how 5G can be harnessed to benefit the transport sector.

5G and Transport

Transportation is responsible for 24% of direct CO2 emissions globally from fuel combustion and its emissions are rising faster than those of any other sector.

5G will play a pivotal role in revolutionising the transport sector to ensure a more sustainable future. From more automation and communicating with other vehicles on the road to sharing data on congestion and hazards, the potential of 5G will enhance the driving experience, reduce emissions, and make travelling safer. Utilising the benefits of 5G connectivity offers the opportunity to reduce emissions produced by transport industry in the UK by 6.6 – 9.3 MtC02e.

How 5G is revolutionising the transport sector

Swedish transport company Einride partnered with telecoms companies Ericsson and Telia to produce a 5G-powered autonomous vehicle ‘T-Pod’.

This partnership was created to advance towards a sustainable transport ecosystem by connecting electric and autonomous vehicles leading to a reduction and ultimately eliminate harmful emissions.

Robert Falck, CEO and Founder of Einride, says: “5G provides the connectivity and reliability we need to safely introduce the T-pod onto public roads, paving the way for a 90 percent reduction in CO2 emissions and the elimination of nitrogen oxide (NOx) emissions.”

Mats Lundbäck, Chief Technology Officer, Telia Sweden, says: “5G is a very exciting technology that will enable new sustainable business opportunities and create customer value. Together with our partners, we are building a powerful ecosystem that is going to have a deep impact for customers and society as a whole.”

Not only will 5G-powered transport vehicles contribute to a reduction in carbon emissions but it can also help to potentially significantly reduce the number of fatal vehicle accidents.

A study by the University of Michigan predicts autonomous vehicles will contribute to improvements in public health and safety, greater mobility, reduced energy usage and environmental impacts, and increased the adoption of car sharing.

The same study found that autonomous vehicles could reduce the number of fatal vehicle crashes by 90 percent just in the US alone, potentially saving approximately $190 billion per year.

To find out how 5G will help lay the path to net zero, read our Climate and Connectivity report here.

Read here to find out how 5G will change the driving experience.