Clean route planning for freight transport
The city of Utrecht is looking into developing a route guidance system for freight road traffic to improve air quality in the city.
Implementing sustainable mobility
To improve air quality in the city, Utrecht aims to develop a system of route guidance that is based on real-time air quality measurement data. This can be done by connecting road traffic management to navigation and route-guidance systems.
One of the key objectives of the measure is to:
>> Determine the feasibility of guiding road freight traffic along routes that are most appropriate at that particular time according to real-time air quality information.
Air quality changes from day to day and varies in different locations. Currently, traffic circulates Utrecht’s urban road network irrespective of weather conditions and air quality. It may however be sensible to guide road freight traffic along certain routes into the city on a given day and along a different route out of the city on another day, depending on local air quality and the weather. Truck drivers can be informed about which route to take by means of roadside or in-vehicle information, for instance navigation and route guidance systems based on Galileo satellite data. Whether adhering to the guidance is compulsory or merely advisory remains to be determined.
How is the measure progressing
An extensive literature research to determine the feasibility of the project is still ongoing. It involves taking stock of local air quality problems, the influence of traffic and route planning on air quality, assessing different strategic approaches, defining options on how to transfer information (e.g. along the road, in-car real-time information, and associated costs), and how to influence heavy traffic (and transport organisations). The research will also evaluate existing technical applications. The feasibility report is scheduled to be finalised in early 2011 based on which the city will decide whether to implement a freight traffic guidance system. Other municipalities and external partners will be approached to see if there is interest in cooperation.
What are the expected results of the measure
The measure will initially lead to a feasibility assessment of a freight traffic guidance system based on local real-time air quality measurements. If implemented, this is expected to improve air quality in the city.
Contact: Peter-Jan Kleevens
