The Canadian company BusPas is leading an ambitious pilot project in Barcelona to modernize bus stops and improve the experience by managing urban traffic through the use of Artificial Intelligence (AI).
AI-powered bus stops?
These new stops will not only provide real-time information on bus arrival times, but will also become true data collection centers thanks to smart cameras. This system will allow knowing the exact number of
Knowing the influx and characteristics of people at each stop in real time is a major step forward for TMB (Transports Metropolitans de Barcelona). This will allow adjusting the service based on demand, optimizing frequencies and routes. Through the BusPas mobile application, this data can be accessed in real time.
Inclusion and safety
The project also incorporates important accessibility and inclusion measures. The new stops will include accessible buttons for people with hearing disabilities, as well as an automatic night lighting system.
The project was presented at the Smart City Expo World Congress 2024 and will be initially implemented at 15 strategic points in the center of Barcelona starting in February 2025.
AI arrives on motorcycles and other advances in urban mobility
Barcelona is also studying how to reduce accidents among motorcycle and moped riders, a critical challenge in the city. In a new project coordinated by Bithabitat, motorcycle mirrors will incorporate sensors to detect nearby hazards and issue real-time alerts. This system, inspired by technologies already used in commercial and municipal vehicles, prevents serious accidents through anticipation and active prevention.
The incorporation of these cutting-edge technologies demonstrates how AI can transform urban transportation into a more efficient, inclusive, and safe tool. If the results are positive, this model could be replicated in other cities.
