Autonomous Mobility: fast steps toward from now toward 2025

Federico II is going to develop modular and autonomous mobility as part of an agreement with Next/Getplus.

The agreement anticipates further initiatives involving the University in the technological and applicative validation of essential innovations by Getplus. Getplus is a dynamic tech company in passenger traffic management and transportation of freights. It is developing a new electric mobility system using modular and autonomous vehicles called PODs.

Addressing the innovation in transportation and mobility

The mobility industry and services arena is undergoing rapid changes. The University of Naples Federico II participates in the development and innovation process. Moreover, the University is training a new generation of highly qualified technicians to deal with future vehicles, infrastructures, and transport services. The strength of the Getplus/Next solution is its modularity and flexibility. The answer can express its full potential when deployed within the paradigm of CCAM (Cooperative, Connected and Automated Mobility).

Cino Bifulco, Professor of Transport Engineering, declares:

“The projects underway at the University of Naples Federico II are all part of a long-term strategy. The University Federico II will put itself at the forefront of the transport revolution.” As the University-side responsible for the agreement, I’m proud to frame the cooperation for modular and autonomous vehicles with Getplus within our portfolio of initiatives. Projects include i) the recently established National Centre for Sustainable Mobility; ii) our master’s degree courses, in particular, the international one in Transportation Engineering and Mobility; iii) the industry-oriented PhDs; iv) and the Federico II Task Force for Smart and Sustainable Mobility”.

Domenico Giudici, a board member of Getplus in charge of external relationships, adds:

“The modular conformation of the Next’s PODS and their fleet management software allows the reduction of about 60 percent of urban freight and passenger traffic. Federico II University will work alongside Getplus as a product development and optimization partner through its engineering excellence. Researchers of the University Federico II will join the international team now developing the modular and autonomous vehicles between Padua and Dubai. This cooperation begins an Italian journey of excellence in sustainable electric and autonomous mobility”.

Perspectives of the Autonomous Mobility

Autonomous mobility refers to using self-driving or autonomous vehicles to transport people and goods. It represents a significant shift in the way we think about transportation and has the potential to impact various aspects of our lives, including safety, convenience, environmental sustainability, and urban planning. Some critical perspectives on autonomous mobility are:

1. Safety and Reduced Accidents: One of the primary arguments favoring autonomous mobility is the potential to reduce traffic accidents caused by human error significantly. Autonomous vehicles are equipped with advanced sensors and artificial intelligence systems that can make split-second decisions to avoid accidents.
2. Increased Accessibility: Autonomous mobility can improve mobility for people who cannot drive due to age, disability, or other reasons. This can enhance their independence and quality of life.
3. Reduced Traffic Congestion: Autonomous vehicles can communicate with each other and traffic infrastructure, potentially reducing traffic congestion by optimizing traffic flow and minimizing bottlenecks.
4. Environmental Benefits: Autonomous mobility can contribute to reduced fuel consumption and emissions by optimizing driving patterns and reducing idling. Additionally, the adoption of electric autonomous vehicles can further reduce environmental impact.
5. Urban Planning and Land Use: Autonomous mobility could reshape urban planning by reducing the need for parking spaces and altering transportation infrastructure requirements. This may lead to more compact and sustainable urban development.
6. Economic Impacts: The autonomous mobility industry has the potential to create jobs in various sectors, including technology development, vehicle manufacturing, and maintenance. However, it may also displace jobs in traditional transportation industries.

Autonomous Mobility raises some relevant issues as well:

1. Data Privacy and Security: Autonomous vehicles generate vast amounts of data, raising concerns about data privacy and cybersecurity. Protecting sensitive information and ensuring the security of autonomous vehicle systems is a significant challenge.
2. Regulatory and Legal Challenges: Developing and implementing regulations for autonomous vehicles is complex and varies by region. Legal questions surrounding liability in the event of accidents involving autonomous vehicles also need to be addressed.
3. Ethical Considerations: Autonomous vehicles may face ethical dilemmas when making decisions that could harm occupants or others. Developing ethical guidelines for AI decision-making in such scenarios is an ongoing challenge.
4. Consumer Acceptance: Widespread adoption of autonomous mobility depends on consumer trust in the technology. Building confidence in the safety and reliability of autonomous vehicles is crucial for their success.
5. Infrastructure Investment: To fully realize the benefits of autonomous mobility, significant investments in transportation infrastructure, including smart roads and traffic management systems, may be required.
6. Equity and Access: Ensuring that autonomous mobility benefits all segments of society and does not exacerbate existing transportation inequalities is an important consideration.
7. Global Perspective: The adoption of autonomous mobility varies worldwide, with different countries and regions progressing at different rates. Collaboration and international standards are necessary for the global integration of autonomous vehicles.

These perspectives highlight the multifaceted nature of autonomous mobility and its various challenges and opportunities. The future of Autonomous Mobility will depend on technological advancements, regulatory decisions, societal acceptance, and ongoing research and development in the field.