It's Europe
N° 7
July/August 2024


TTS Italia is the Italian ITS Association founded with the aim to promote the development and deployment of Intelligent Transport Systems (ITS) in Italy.
In this issue:
The interview by Morena Pivetti
Member of the month
Project of the month
Products of the month
From our members  
Our activities
Business opportunities  
TTS Italia supports
Save the date 
SUPPORTED BY
The interview by Morena Pivetti

 

The experience of the Campania Region, a trailblazer in the development of integrated mobility and ticketing services. The conference organized in Naples by TTS Italia and Consorzio UnicoCampania

Over 150 participants including institutions, industry experts and companies to take stock of the situation and evolution of the world of transportation in Campania: the conference organized by TTS Italia and Consorzio UnicoCampania on “Campania's experience in the development of integrated mobility services” was a great success in mid-June in Naples. It was an important moment of meeting and discussion on the state of the art and the evolution of the world of transportation in the region, thanks to the participation of the most important institutional representatives, from the President of the Campania Region, Vincenzo De Luca to the mayor of Naples, Gaetano Manfredi; from the President of the Region's IV Transport Commission, Luca Cascone to the Councillor for Mobility of the City of Naples, Edoardo Cosenza and the General Director of Acamir, Maria Teresa Di Mattia. Speakers included Umberto De Gregorio, president of EAV s.r.l.; Maria Annunziata Giaconia, director of Trenitalia's Regional Business and Intermodal Development; Francesco Favo, ANM general manager; Dario Gentile, manager of the Naples City Council's Department of Mobility; and Massimo Bisogno, director of Digital Transition of the Campania Region.

“TTS Italia is proud to be in Naples, together with its partner UnicoCampania,” is how TTS Italia president Rossella Panero commented on the event, ”where once again it reaffirmed the primary role of technologies in the development of mobility services and highlighted not only the quantity but also the quality of the solutions available. We have always promoted public-private cooperation, the cornerstone of evolutions that work, and this conference was further proof of that.” “We strongly wanted to organize this conference in Naples with TTS Italia,” stressed, in turn, UnicoCampania Consortium President Gaetano Ratto, ”to highlight the giant strides made in the field of technological innovation and the search for increasingly smart solutions to make the travel experience simple, immediate and cost-effective. So many new challenges await us in the near future: the comparison between insiders and institutions is as important as ever for proper planning of the goals to be achieved.”

We ask President Ratto, as a further comment: Campania has been a pioneer region in the development of integrated mobility between road and rail services throughout the territory, and in particular, with UnicoCampania, of single ticketing to encourage better and easier use of different means of public transportation. Would you remind us of your experience? How much has having an enabling technology influenced it?
Yes, Campania was among the first regions to believe in and focus on fare integration, creating a system of great complexity, but very easy to use for users, that makes available to travelers’ 100 percent of the regional rail offer and 85 percent of the road offer. We started thirty years ago-we are, in fact, about to celebrate our very 30th anniversary-and, over the years, we have always maintained an open-minded attitude, attentive to innovations and aimed at providing increasingly significant benefits to those who use local public transport. Our system has evolved, also taking advantage of the new tools that technology has made available.

What has been the evolution, President?
In the last period, we have focused on increasing the 'technological' component, diversifying the modes of purchase and media of travel tickets that are far removed from the old magnetic ticket. While retaining a residual share of the latter type, the trend is to increasingly encourage the use of the 'dematerialized' ticket, which has so many benefits in terms of ease of use, ease of retrieval and environmental protection. Technology has been essential. It has allowed us, for example, to develop an APP, that of UnicoCampania precisely, which allows you to conveniently purchase tickets and monthly subscriptions with your smartphone, without having to go to a point of sale. It has allowed us to 'integrate' other sales networks, such as those of Punto LIS, Mooney, Drop Point and, the latest addition to Unico, Telepass, to expand - for the benefit of users - the ways in which travel tickets can be purchased, making the places where tickets can be purchased capillary throughout the region. It allowed us, finally, to activate the Tap&Go service that gives the opportunity to travel on the rail network and funiculars, using, simply, one's credit card, which acts - at the turnstiles - as an actual ticket and, in addition, with a system that ensures that the most convenient fare is applied to the trips, even multi-operator trips, made by the passenger. In conclusion, today moving by public transportation has become, truly, the best choice for convenience, speed and environmental friendliness.

The next steps?
They will be aimed at making the travel experience as pleasant and smart as possible. In particular, we count on eliminating the magnetic altogether and continuing our journey of 'integration' by expanding the services to include maritime transport and soft mobility. Ambitious goal but we have never been afraid of challenges; I am sure we will achieve this important goal as well.

We pass the baton to Umberto de Gregorio, president of Eav. President, the new revolution in integrated mobility is called MaaS, Mobility as a Service, a revolution that puts the passenger at the center. This time, too, Naples is leading the way along with Rome and Milan. How strategic is data management?
The MaaS for Italy project involves Naples and companies such as EAV and ANM to achieve, by 'networking,' more efficient services that see the passenger as the central element. Ente Autonomo Volturno, like any transportation company, must provide integrated information and services so that the passenger has only one task: to indicate his or her destination. The new MaaS paradigm eliminates the need to find out who is the operator running a certain route and allows passengers to make a single transaction for the different routes that make up their intermodal journey. In this new 'Ecosystem' large companies need to interact with smaller, so-called 'soft mobility' operators, i.e. those covering the last mile, scooters, e-bikes and green cars. With this in mind, data management and especially data integration is of paramount importance. New issues are introduced: who guarantees the presence of a scooter upon arrival at a station? Or how do I charge you one ticket if the time of use of a green car is not known in advance? The road is challenging but it is the right one and, above all, it responds to what the European Community wants: maximum passenger centrality.

Where do you stand, President?
In the MaaS for Italy project, and in the MaaS for Naples variant, thought was first given to building the communication protocols, which for MaaS systems involve the use of the new fomats Netex and Siri - closer to the logics of transportation companies - in spite of data that previously were the preserve only of the Google Map platform, which curated them mainly for commercial purposes. The MaaS platform provides for a single large container of information at the national level called the NAP, National Access Point, which contains the data that all transport operators must produce and which first pass through the RAP, Regional Access Point curated by Acamir. EAV, with Innovation and Commercial, together with the other partners, the City of Naples, the Consorzio Unico Campania and the Region went through all phases of the project, forming a panel of users who experimentally tested the system. Today we are moving towards the use of SIRI level 3, with travel fare management. The EAV passenger, through the MaaS platform, will be able to use the services we offer in a simple, digital and integrated way, and will soon be able to count on better services for the extraordinary infrastructure and train upgrades we are working on.

 
Member of the month

Thetis IT is a supplier of ITS (Intelligent Transport Systems) solutions and a systems integrator that has been working internationally for over 25 years with public transport operators, public services, public administrations, and logistics operators.
With extensive experience in IT engineering, innovative technologies, and transport management solutions, Thetis IT provides innovative solutions for sustainable mobility and public transport, leveraging the know-how and experience in ITS projects implemented worldwide. Thetis IT considers the improvement of people and goods mobility as a fundamental value in the development of Smart Mobility.
For this reason, Thetis IT implements systems for efficient and well-integrated smart services management, offering cutting-edge, open, and reliable turnkey solutions. As a system integrator, Thetis IT has implemented ITS solutions for various public transport operators, including: software platforms for monitoring mobility and transport services, vehicle systems interfaced with multiple peripherals based on specific applications, development of applications for advanced analysis of service data and real-time multi-channel passenger information. Thetis IT was founded in 2019 following the spin-off of the Intelligent Transport Services division of Thetis SpA. Thetis SpA is an engineering company in Venice; since 1998, the ITS division has been dedicated to the development and management of public transport systems (road and maritime) in Venice. In the 1990s and 2000s, the ITS division acquired numerous clients in Italy and abroad. In 2019, the ITS division of Thetis SpA was spun off, becoming an autonomous and independent company, maintaining the roots of the Thetis name, known to all its clients, and adding the suffix IT for "Intelligent Transport". Thetis IT's organization is focused on innovation and continuous improvement of its technological solutions. The highly specialized internal staff integrates with external technology partners to develop the best and most innovative software and hardware technologies. Thetis IT does not just offer its innovative solutions to clients, but - being a software engineering company - responds to each client by developing the best tailor-made solution for specific needs, adapting and enriching the functionality of its system, as well as working on the continuous improvement and evolution of services during the Managed Services phase, which includes on-premises, cloud solutions, including IaaS (Infrastructure as a Service) and SaaS (Solution as a Service).


THE PRODUCT IN THE SPOTLIGHT
IDIM

IDIM (Integrated Dynamic InfoMobility) is the new software module by Thetis IT dedicated to managing the dissemination of information for passengers on board vehicles, at stops, and through other digital channels using a multi-channel approach.
The IDIM module, while natively integrated with Thetis IT's AVM EBUS CLOUD platform, can also be used as an application that interfaces with any AVM solution through standard interfaces like SIRI.
The graphical interface of IDIM has been carefully designed, taking into account that functionality, usability, and aesthetics are decisive criteria for an effective and quality user experience.
From a functional point of view, IDIM consists of a module for associating displays, either physical or virtual, with stops, and a module for the creation, management, and publication of informational and advertising content aimed at public transport users. The solution is complemented by a system of connectors that allows dissemination on different types of physical devices and digital channels.
Therefore, in addition to being able to manage traditional displays such as LED, TFT, and e-paper, IDIM also allows for the management of the presentation of selected content through web apps, making information available in real-time on websites and smartphones when a passenger scans a QR code at a stop. This enables the transportation operator to autonomously and effectively manage all informational channels in an efficient manner.


THREE QUESTIONS TO…
Paolo Campello - CTO

Why is real-time passenger information increasingly important in public transport?
Real-time information is crucial in public transport because it significantly improves the passenger experience and facilitates and incentivises the use of public transport. Real-time passenger information plays a key role because it reduces perceived and actual waiting times, allowing passengers to better plan their journeys and reducing the stress associated with uncertainty. This, consequently, contributes to making public transport a preferable choice to private car use. The quality of user information is therefore crucial: information must be accurate, reliable and constantly updated. Otherwise, there is a risk of passengers being frustrated and discouraged from using public transport. For this reason, Thetis IT's integrated systems, offered for more than 25 years, are developed with a strong focus on all phases of information processing, from real-time data acquisition and elaboration, to the clear presentation of information in order to improve passenger satisfaction and promote more sustainable mobility through increased use of public transport.

What are the key elements to ensure a valuable infomobility service for public transport passengers?
A valuable infomobility service for public transport passengers must be based on a few key elements. First of all, the quality of the source data is essential: accurate vehicle monitoring through AVL/M (Automatic Vehicle Location/Monitoring) systems is needed to ensure accurate and up-to-date information. The system must be multi-operator and multi-modal, capable of acquiring and integrating different sources of information - possibly using open standards such as SIRI and GTFS - to give the user a complete view of all available transport options. The ability to actively manage interchange correspondences and service variations is another extremely important element to enable passengers to plan their journeys effectively. In addition, an advanced arrival forecasting system is essential to provide accurate travel time information and improve passenger route planning. By analysing historical data, current traffic conditions, dynamic vehicle information, and other relevant factors, these systems must provide reliable predictions of when a vehicle will arrive at a particular stop. Over time, Thetis IT has increasingly refined the predictive algorithms included in its AVL/M platform, integrating multiple data sources to generate highly accurate predictions even in the multimodal environment, while complying with stringent international requirements such as those defined by RTIG. 

What are the distinguishing features of a modern passenger information system for public transport?
A modern passenger information system for public transport must offer centralised management through content management systems (CMS) that can coordinate different communication channels, both physical and digital. The new CMSs ensure that operators can show the scheduled timetable and destination on roadside and in-vehicle displays, next stops, real-time updates on upcoming arrivals and information on vehicle occupancy.
Among the physical channels, the use of various types of displays such as LED, TFT and electronic ink displays enables real-time information to be provided directly on platforms and at stops, improving the accessibility of information. Mobile apps and websites are crucial to reach a wide range of users, providing the same up-to-date information wherever they are.
In addition to real time timetable, these systems can convey other useful content, such as service alerts, public utility information and even commercial information. Consistent and reliable information across all channels increases passenger confidence and improves the overall travel experience, making public transport a more attractive and competitive choice. To achieve these objectives, Thetis IT has developed the IDIM platform for the integrated and dynamic management of user information, capable of centrally dealing with user information through any information channel.

Project of the month

Artificial intelligence applied to public transport with GreenShare

GreenShare, developing applications and other cutting-edge solutions for mobility, based on advanced infomobility, ticketing and electronic payment systems, is currently employing advanced artificial intelligence algorithms to help transport companies invest in highly innovative technologies.

The areas of experimentation in which GreenShare is engaged are the following:
1. Monitoring of driving styles
2. Prediction of crowding on vehicles
3. Fare evasion
4. Predictive maintenance of public transport
5. Prediction of vehicle arrival times

DRIVING STYLES
Adopt AI to monitor drivers' driving styles in real time, anonymously, through devices that detect GPS, accelerometer and gyroscope data.

Benefits
- Savings on insurance costs thanks to the increase in driving styles’ data
- Increased safety on board for drivers and passengers
- Greater attractiveness of the service for passengers
- Economic advantages on maintenance
Click here to consult the case study

CROWDING
The AI cross-references the data collected by the ticket inspectors/staff on board, by the people counters, by the AVM and by the GTFS to predict the vehicles' capacity on various bus lines at different times of the day. Furthermore, by integrating information on external events (e.g. weather agents, events) it is possible to improve the forecasts’ accuracy.

Benefits
- Better fleet planning
- Service optimization based on external and future events
- Greater attractiveness of the service for passengers
Click here to consult the case study

FARE EVASION
Our AI system cross-references validation data, reports from ticket inspectors on duty, and GTFS data to identify the lines with the highest fare evasion rates. This enables us to strategically limit and optimize ticket inspector interventions.

Benefits
- Reduction of fare evasion.
- Optimization of ticket inspectors' paths on lines with higher evasion rates.
Click here to consult the case study

PREDICTIVE MAINTENANCE
AI monitors the fleet and detects when the data collected deviates from the typical functioning of a vehicle in "good health". It can identify the exact problem related to the conflicting data, optimal for the prevention of the vehicle. Furthermore, by accessing workshop data, AI algorithms can provide information on the different types of failures, providing indications on the severity of the problem.

Benefits
- Safeguarding the fleet
- Reduction of inefficiencies
- Maintenance optimization
- Greater attractiveness of the service for passengers

ARRIVALS PREDICTION
Artificial intelligence algorithms analyze the historical arrival times (AVM) and line planning to optimize the prediction of bus passage at each stop.

Benefits
- Reduction of errors in time planning thanks to a tool that generates it automatically
- Improved passenger experience
- Limit the differences between real-time and planned/scheduled times

Products of the month

Mia-Platform for the Adoption of Data Exchange Standards in Mobility

Companies in the mobility sector strive to provide a seamless travel experience that covers the entire journey without interruptions and in a uniform manner. Often, data comes in different formats and requires translation to be utilized effectively. The establishment of global standards for data exchange in mobility is crucial, especially to comply with the EU Regulation on multimodal transport services. This involves sharing data through National Access Points (NAP), using specific standards such as NeTEx and SIRI, as established by the European Commission. Additionally, there are other widely accepted parameters in the transport and mobility industry, such as TOMP and GTFS.
In this context, a data converter becomes a must-have in order to easily transform custom data into formats that are compatible with indicated standards. This way, data becomes interoperable and regulation compliant, through the usage of a single solution.
Thanks to Mia-Platform's Mobility Integration Portal it is possible to aggregate information and expose data for the National Access Point (NAP) in compliance with the law. At the same time, the data can be shared with partners through a self-service portal that exposes service APIs directly with the necessary standard data provisions.

Alongside the Mobility Integration Portal, we find the GTFS to NeTEx 1.1 Converter a digital service offered by Mia-Platform that ensures accurate conversion based on precise mapping from GTFS to top-tier NeTEx, preserving data integrity.
Designed to guarantee high scalability, it can handle large datasets from the most extensive transport networks.

You can access a trial version of the converter directly from this link on Mia-Platform’s website.


Fast Prototyping Week (FPW) – A road for everyone – SWARCO and inclusive mobility for Visually Impaired Road Users

As we go about our daily errands, we encounter various devices at intersections that make our journeys safer, quicker, and more convenient, including pedestrian lights, crosswalks, and signs. These aids, effective for decades, rely on visual stimuli, which are inaccessible to the estimated 250 million people worldwide with moderate to severe visual impairments, including around 36 million who are completely blind.
Historically, considerations for visually impaired individuals have been secondary in public tenders. However, fairness and equity demand that we highlight and support the needs of these particularly vulnerable road users. We aim to make "The Better Way. Every Day" an inclusive experience for everyone.
Swarco Fast Prototyping Week (FPW) has been held from July 7th to 11th in Wattens. This session, hosted by the Innovation Community, focuses on the critical theme of Inclusive Mobility. The prototyping team aims to explore how intersections can be made more accessible, particularly for people with disabilities. Given that 15% of the world's population lives with disabilities, it is essential for us as a road safety and infrastructure provider to prioritize this topic.
Collaborative Efforts and Expertise
The team can count on the participation and experience of several colleagues from SWARCO, from marketing to VPs, from technicians to the executive board, considering the topic of key relevance.
Innovative Solutions and Prototypes
A notable highlight of this FPW is the debut of the tactile pavement marking plate created at SWARCO VICAS in Romania. This innovative product, a collaborative effort between the RMS and ITS Divisions, integrates RFID chips that enable communication between disabled pedestrians and traffic controllers or push-buttons.

Next Steps
Moving forward, we will engage with visually impaired communities to better understand their needs, demonstrate how our approach enhances mobility, set up pilot projects, and refine our Go2market strategy for mass rollout. By doing so, we aim to make intersections safer, more convenient, and truly accessible for all.

From our members  

CIRCLE Group announces new Port Community Services contract worth €1.7 million for Mediterranean port
Circle S.p.A. (“CIRCLE” or the “Company”) – Innovative SME listed on the Euronext Growth Milan market at the head of the Group of the same name specialized in the analysis of processes and the development of solutions for the innovation and digitalisation of the port sectors and intermodal logistics as well as international consultancy on the issues of the Green Deal and energy transition, and TTS Italia ordinary member, announces that it has signed an agreement with a Mediterranean port for the use of the Port Community Services offered by the Group.
The value of the contract is over €700,000 and will have a duration of approximately 18 months, expandable up to a further €1,000,000 (for a total value of €1,700,000) and a period of up to 24 months.
Luca Abatello, CEO & President of CIRCLE Group: “This agreement confirms the quality of the port digitalization solutions offered by the Group and the distinctiveness of our services. The “Connect 4 Agile Growth” plan, presented at the end of June, significantly aims to expand these services and, with the support of the PNRR, we will be able to further strengthen our path in the coming months. The concreteness of the results achieved and the optimization obtained in the port context guarantees immediate benefits to the Group's partners".

Source: CIRCLE Group

Geotab and BYD Trucks Europe announce integration to advance sustainable fleet management solutions
Geotab, a global leader in IoT and connected transportation solutions, and TTS Italia ordinary member, announced an integration of its European-based fleet management solutions with BYD Trucks Europe, a part of the world's leading electric vehicle manufacturer BYD.  This collaboration provides BYD Trucks Europe with a robust fleet management solution across Europe, with Geotab delivering an end-to-end connectivity solution that helps ensure data privacy and security within the region.
Under this agreement, BYD's electric trucks imported to Europe will be equipped with Geotab’s advanced telematics hardware that captures comprehensive vehicle data. This data, with customer agreement, will be utilised by BYD Trucks Europe to enhance vehicle quality, maintenance, and service management - aiming to minimise both planned and unplanned downtime. Furthermore, BYD Trucks Europe will offer Geotab's fleet telematics services to its customers, enabling transport companies to access valuable vehicle data insights for improved efficiency, operations, cost management and fleet sustainability.
Christoph Ludewig, VP Leasing/Rental/Mobility & OEM of Geotab Europe, states: "Our role as a supplier to BYD Trucks Europe emphasises the trust placed in Geotab's technology, which enables BYD Trucks Europe to optimise their own operations and provide exceptional services to their customers. This relationship with BYD Trucks Europe underscores our commitment to deliver top-tier fleet management solutions while ensuring data security and privacy. We are thrilled this opportunity will support the transformation to fleet electrification across Europe."
Geotab's sophisticated telematics hardware and data capabilities combined with BYD's cutting-edge electric vehicle technology, offer unparalleled near real-time access to vehicle data, analytics, and insights. The integration ensures that all data is transmitted and stored within a secure European database. 
 The relationship between Geotab and BYD Trucks Europe delivers a robust and secure EV transition solution for fleet operators, enhancing the performance and sustainability of electric fleets throughout Europe.

Source: Geotab

How to Maximize EV Range in High Summer Temperatures
Driving an electric vehicle (EV) comes with its own set of strategies for efficiency, particularly under the intense heat of summer. Whether you're a fleet vehicle manager or a daily commuter, understanding how to optimize your EV's range can lead to a more pleasant and cost-effective driving experience. Geotab, TTS Italia ordinary member, shares essential tips for both short and long driving conditions to keep your journeys worry free, and maintain your battery’s health in the long run.

1. Precondition Your EV
Before you start:  Precondition your vehicle while it's still plugged in. This practice allows the car to reach a comfortable cabin temperature using power from the grid rather than draining the battery once on the road. This can significantly conserve your EV's range as climate control systems draw substantial power. Furthermore, when your vehicle is plugged in, the thermal management system can condition the batteries so they don’t overheat, which helps prolong battery life in the long term.

2. Optimize Your Driving Style
Practice smooth acceleration and deceleration. Aggressive driving tends to deplete the battery much quicker. Use regenerative braking to your advantage; by easing off the accelerator early, you allow the car to recover energy that helps to extend your overall range.
Maintain a steady speed and use cruise control when possible. Driving at consistent speeds reduces energy consumption and can significantly improve your EV’s range. Anticipate stops to minimize hard braking, and take advantage of regenerative braking to add extra miles to your drive.

3. Manage Climate Control
Do not overuse air conditioning. It's a power hungry system. Set the A/C to a moderate temperature and if available, turn on the seat coolers which consume less power than cooling the entire cabin. 

4. Shade Parking
Whenever possible, park in the shade to keep your vehicle cooler and reduce the demand on the climate control system when you return to your car. If you have access to an outlet when you’re parked, plug in for the additional benefit of battery and cabin conditioning.  

5. Consider Charge Options
If you have the option, avoid fast charging (DCFC) on the hottest days. The combination of high heat and high power can add stress to your batteries, contributing to faster degradation rates in the long term.

6. Monitor Tire Pressure Regularly
High temperatures can affect tire pressure. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance and can lower your EV's range. Regularly check and maintain the recommended tire pressure for optimal efficiency over any distance.

By adhering to these guidelines, EV drivers can enhance driving efficiency, prolong vehicle range and life, and enjoy their summer travel with confidence. Whether you're making a short trip across town or embarking on a lengthy road trip, these measures can help ensure a smooth and efficient journey.

Source: Geotab

Intecs develops AIVisionPark for smart parking
Intecs, an ordinary member of TTS Italia, has developed the AIVisionPark system that enables the implementation of smart parking services deliverable by public and private operators. This system is currently being tested and fine-tuned.
The solution allows the user dynamic, effective and efficient management of the delineated area through the use of cameras and AI algorithms. AIVisionPark can be used in any type of parking even in that without road markings, can provide video surveillance activities, integrates with existing cameras, and can integrate even non-optical sensors in full compliance with current privacy regulations.

Source: Intecs

New Geotab Report: 40% Reduction in Global Collision Rate with Proactive Fleet Safety Measures
Geotab – global leader in the field of connected vehicle technology, and ordinary member of TTS Italia, presents the results of the report “Business at the wheel: how to accelerate ROI through reliable and high-quality analytical insights”. The research, based on the analysis of data and trends emerging in 2023, offers useful insights into the evolving landscape of commercial transport, providing essential information to address its challenges and take full advantage of emerging opportunities, both from a safety and security perspective both road and efficiency. The 2024 edition of the report delves into the main trends, difficulties and potential of the sector, highlighting the central role that advanced telematics can have in optimizing fleets. In a context characterized by increasing fuel prices, regulatory changes and economic uncertainties, fleet managers today can, in fact, strengthen safety measures, improve productivity and reduce costs thanks to the help of data intelligence and more advanced AI models. Key findings: From reductions in collision rates and average trip lengths to sustainability initiatives and electric adoption. Commercial fleets using Geotab's safety features have seen a reduction 40% of collision rates globally in 12 months.
In particular, in Italy, a 5.3% increase in kilometers traveled before an accident was calculated, which suggests an improvement in the safety measures adopted, with a consequent decrease in collisions. Only Spain did better than the Bel Paese (5.7%), followed by Brazil (4%). Germany (-27%), Portugal (-30%), the United Kingdom (-19%) and the United States (-12.6%) instead recorded a decrease in kilometers traveled before an accident occurs: therefore, for these nations, the need to focus more on adequate safety measures emerges.
According to expert estimates, a more extensive use of safety features, such as those offered by Geotab, could also have potentially avoided around 3,500 collisions globally.
The report also signals an increase in the average age of vehicles, consequently highlighting the crucial role of predictive maintenance for safety and operational efficiency.
Similarly, the commitment to identifying more efficient routes and better planning can be reflected in a decrease in the duration of journeys: the most significant decrease was observed in Italy, where a 4.3% reduction in the average duration was recorded. of the journey. Sustainability initiatives aimed at reducing fuel consumption are confirmed as fundamental, as according to data from vehicles connected by Geotab, costs related to power represent 60% of the total operating costs of a fleet. In Europe, Italy, together with Portugal and France, has shown a strong and positive reduction in vehicle idle times (parking with the engine running), with drops of 6.3%, 10.2% and 10% respectively. ,4%.
Germany, the United Kingdom and Mexico, on the other hand, recorded an increase in downtime in the same period, highlighting possible scope for further optimization in terms of sustainability. Looking instead at the adoption of commercial electric vehicles, although in Italy a -28% was recorded, globally, in 2023, the adoption rate saw a significant increase.
In Europe, the countries that recorded the most significant increase were Portugal (+38%), France (+37%), Spain (+25%) and the UK (+22%). However, the adoption of electric vehicles in Germany is decreasing (-4%).
However, the greatest growth was recorded in developing nations such as South Africa (+796%), Peru (+289%) and Mexico (+248%).“The transformative potential of connected vehicles and the importance of being able to count on reliable data are now evident”, declares Franco Viganò, Director, Strategic Channel & Italy Country Manager of Geotab. “Our report provides valuable insights into the dynamic landscape of the transportation sector. As companies strive to adapt to evolving market conditions and adopt sustainable practices, Geotab remains committed to providing them with the tools and data-driven insights they need to thrive in an increasingly complex environment.” Globally, the telematics sector is robust and continually developing: the global transportation telematics market is expected to grow at a CAGR of 20% from 2022 to 2029, reaching over $66.04 billion by 2029, up from $12.79 billion dollars in 2020. The report demonstrates how data and artificial intelligence will play a decisive role in the coming months in driving the performance, efficiency, profitability and sustainability of the transportation industry. In a context of complex economic, environmental and technological transformations, Geotab is committed to providing exceptionally valuable insights that enable companies to make informed decisions.

The report is available here.

Targa Telematics awarded by Frost & Sullivan as the leading telematics solutions company in the insurance market
Targa Telematics, one of the main global players in IoT and in the development of connected mobility solutions and digital platforms, and TTS Italia founding member, has been awarded the 2024 European Enabling Technology Leadership Award by Frost & Sullivan.
This award certifies Targa Telematics’ role as a leading company in Europe for digital solutions in the insurance market. Its distinctive positioning is characterized by significant investment research and development and has been further reinforced by its acquisition of Viasat Group.
A rapidly growing sector in the coming years, Frost & Sullivan predicts that the adoption of telematics in the insurance market will reach $26.83 billion by 2028 and have a compound annual growth rate of 30.4% from 2021 to 2028.
Targa Telematics boasts the most comprehensive portfolio of insurance market solutions as it draws from diverse data sources, including a wide array of aftermarket devices, OEM data streams, and mobile-as-a-sensor solutions. By doing so, it provides the most accurate information for various use cases in the simplest and most effective way possible.
Specifically for the insurance market, the company offers a digital solution set that allow insurance partners and clients to reduce fraud and facilitate claims management by leveraging more accurate and reliable risk profiles, automatic and timely accident reconstructions, and improved driving behavior analysis.
Additionally, Targa Telematics offers fast and scalable solutions that insurance companies can use to manage new sustainable mobility service coverage, such as car sharing or peer-to-peer sharing.
The company differentiates its insurance offerings by rewarding responsible drivers with tailor-made solutions and pay-how-you-drive or pay-per-drive pricing models that are based on actual driving behaviors and distances traveled.
In this context, Targa Drive has introduced a new UBI telematics solution entirely based on smartphones. It combines an app capable of collecting a wide set of data related to specific driving situations, such as braking, acceleration, driving distractions, speed, and cornering. The application then creates predictive and personalized scores that are insurers can use to determine the risk level of their insured. It also completes a range of products for the insurance world, including integrative analyses generated by new sources of behavioral data such as driver distraction—one of the most frequent causes of accidents on the roads.
Nicola De Mattia, CEO of Targa Telematics, commented: “This award once again underscores the value that Targa Telematics brings to the insurance market, thanks to a constant inclination towards digital innovation and the ability to deeply understand both industry dynamics and individual customer needs. Its consolidated and internationally recognized positioning is further strengthened by the acquisition of the Viasat Group and Drive-IT.”
“The growing adoption of connected vehicles, combined with advancements in in-car services, data generation, and increasing awareness of safety, has led to increased demand for tailored insurance solutions in Europe. Targa Telematics’ expertise in technology and understanding of specific needs in different countries positions the company as a valuable partner for insurers looking to implement telematics insurance projects with high standards of excellence,” said Parduman Satpal, Senior Research Analyst for Mobility Media at Frost & Sullivan.
“Targa Telematics holds a market share of over 35% for installed insurance telematics devices in Europe; its range of diversified products suitable for various consumer segments positions it as a provider of comprehensive solutions for all insurance needs related to telematics,” noted Samantha Fisher, Best Practices Research Analyst at Frost & Sullivan.

Source: Targa Telematics

Tattile announces the acquisition of Comark
Tattile, a leading international player in the License Plate Reading and Axle Counting domain, and TTS Italia ordinary member, is pleased to announce the acquisition of Comark, a company with solid growth over the last ten years, specialized in laser-based volumetric vehicle measurement and classification for tolling and free-flow tolling applications. With this acquisition, Tattile can further drive the optimization of traffic flows through innovative and AI-driven products, with new high-performance and high-added value solutions.  
Comark is a dynamic Italian company based in Udine, Italy. With 30% of the team working in the R&D department, it has a strong international footprint, with 60% of the revenues in Europe (including Italy), 15% in APAC, and 25% in South America.  
Traffic optimization is a significant ITS (Intelligent Transportation Systems) industry trend. Thanks to a quicker tolling process on highways and other payment roads, it increases traffic efficiency and reduces pollution. Optimizing traffic flows on highways involves implementing a fully automated tolling process. This process begins with reading the vehicle’s license plate, then accurately counting the vehicle’s total number of axles, and finally capturing the vehicle’s volume. These three pieces of information are crucial in determining the vehicle class and then, the total toll amount.  
Mr. Federico Vincenzi, founder and owner of Comark, said, “We are motivated to be part of Tattile and TKH Group as we see it as a unique opportunity to ensure Comark’s solid growth in the international markets and a very innovative joint product development, finalized to exploit the best of both companies’ core competencies.” 
Mr. Corrado Franchi, CEO of Tattile, added: “The strong similarity in the founding values ​​of both organizations, the same service orientation, and an almost overlapped customer portfolio, make the integration a natural step towards the generation of new high-performance and high-added value systems, based on the unlimited opportunities generated by AI.” 

Source: Tattile

TTS Italia welcomes new members!
Following the Board of Directors meeting on July 4th, TTS Italia is happy to welcome new members!

GeoJunxion B.V is a Dutch company, operating since 1984, which aims to provide innovative geolocalized data and solutions for road safety, environmental sustainability, etc.
GeoJunxion's services range from the provision of software solutions for calculating the distance and costs of commuters for the optimization of home-work transport routes and modes for the public administration, to the development of customized digital maps for integration in web or stand-alone solutions for planning and optimizing logistics processes, up to the creation of worldwide coverage datasets for automotive navigation applications.

IM Group/EmerTel is a system integrator based in Treviso that designs and integrates technologies and solutions intended for the world of wireless communications mainly under the Motorola and Radioactivity brands. In the mobility sector, IM Group/EmerTel offers solutions for the technological management of local public transport fleets, for the creation of operations centers, for integrated and connected ambulances, etc.

Intellera Consulting is an Italian strategy consulting firm offering professional services to companies and organizations in the public and private sectors. Founded in 2021 and since May 2024 part of the Accenture Group, it has more than 1,300 professionals distributed in 15 different offices throughout Italy, the main ones of which are located in Milan, Rome and Palermo, and in Brussels.The company acts as a strategic partner for organizations wishing to optimize their operations, adopt new technologies, and address market challenges with a focus on innovation, digital transformation, and environmental and social sustainability.

Mia-Platform is a company founded in 2016 in Milan with offices also in Amsterdam and London. To date it has more than 150 employees and more than 35 enterprise-sized customers. Over time, it has developed expertise in various sectors, including mobility. The offer for the world of transport is based on composable software architectures and adherence to data standards that allow interoperability with other strategic players: platforms to enable MaaS, solutions for integrated mobility, standard data exchange solutions for greater connectivity, etc.

Servizi in Rete 2001 is a company based in Rome established in 2006 as a result of a merger between the Società Servizi Base 2001 S.p.A. and Rete Base 2001 S.p.A., is part of the Italian Tobacconists Federation.
An entire Business Unit is dedicated in particular to the management of local and regional public transport. The business branches considered "core" for Servizi in Rete are represented by the distribution and marketing services to and through tobacconists and other points of sale of products connected, among others, to the payment of motorway tolls, to the distribution of travel and/or parking, both electronically and physically.

Vifram is a company based in Turin, leader in the Italian panorama of electronics and telecommunications solutions. Since 2001, it has been developing specific solutions for the industrial, automotive and military markets. With a staff of over 50 collaborators, it evolves its know-how through the continuous search for innovative, efficient and effective solutions that meet the needs of its reference markets. At VIFRAM all production processes and related services are adapted to the most advanced standards in order to guarantee quality and continuous improvement to its customers.

Our activities

Road code: TTS Italia in hearing in the Senate
On 2 July, TTS Italia was heard by videoconference by the Senate as part of the examination of bill no. 1086 (Road Code). Participants: the President of TTS Italia, Rossella Panero, speaker; Olga Landolfi, General Secretary of TTS Italia; Leonardo Domanico, Head of Relations with Associates and Funded Projects; and Laura Franchi, Communications Manager.
The hearing, promoted by the 8th Commission on the Environment, ecological transition, energy, public works, communications, technological innovation of the Senate, allowed TTS Italia to reiterate once again, in the appropriate places, what the Association considers important, urgent and useful to do in order to define a new Road Code.
In particular, TTS Italia underlined the main critical issues, discussed at length with its members:
• lack of clarity on the terminology "approval" and "homologation" of speed detection systems
• still long times for issuing approvals/approvals of enforcement devices
• effective use of the proceeds from infringements of the Road Code to improve road safety.
And naturally, the Association has launched its own proposals to be included and considered in the new Road Code.
First of all, a rapid transposition of the new Directive 2661/2023 on ITS to promote multimodal, connected and automated mobility and, consequently, safer and more efficient; as well as the modernization of road infrastructures through digitalisation in order to create the so-called "smart roads" envisaged in the MIT Ministerial Decree of 28/2/2018 and therefore promote connected and automatic mobility.
Then, the automatic control for the detection of infringements of the Road Code, such as failure to inspect vehicles, lack of vehicle insurance coverage, use of mobile phones while driving, failure to respect pedestrian crossings, side checks freight transport infrastructure regarding compliance with driving and rest times.
And again, the updating and adaptation of speed limits with objective criteria based on the characteristics of today's infrastructure and vehicles, absolutely advanced compared to those of a few decades ago thanks to the use of technological systems on both the infrastructure and vehicle side.

Italian Stakeholders met in Rome discussing EMBRACER topics
The third Italian Regional Stakeholder Meeting of the EMBRACER project, co-organised by TTS Italia and the Metropolitan City of Cagliari, both project partners, took place on July 12, 2024 in Rome, Italy, at TTS Italia premises.
This important event brought together key stakeholders to discuss progress, share updates, and explore innovative solutions for integrated mobility services bridging connectivity gaps between urban and lower-density communities.
The meeting facilitated knowledge exchange, fostered collaboration, and gathered valuable input from stakeholders to guide the future directions of the EMBRACER project, serving as a platform for discussing the latest advancements, sharing experiences, and exploring innovative solutions for improving regional mobility.
inBlenda/TTS Italia chaired the meeting starting with facilitating a round-table of participant introductions and presenting a high-level overview of the Interreg Europe programme along with the pivotal role of European territorial cooperation in solving today’s mobility challenges. A comprehensive overview on the current state of the EMBRACER project was given, outlining key challenges, objectives and scope of work, progress updates, and ongoing activities. Key insights and lessons learnt from the Exchange of Experience events were shared, which were organized by TTS Italia and the Metropolitan City of Cagliari in Rome in December 2023, as well as previously by other project partners. The importance of defining Good Practices within the project and encouraged stakeholders to contribute relevant examples based on their experiences was emphasized.
The Metropolitan City of Cagliari focused on SUMP and the Plan for Minimum Transport Services to optimize local public transport.
Maurizio Pelosi, from Tiemme, a public transport operator from Tuscany region, shared two good practices for mobility management in low-density areas.
Guido Rodia, from UnicoCampania, discussed the evolution and experience of UnicoCampania transitioning from tariff integration to MaaS.
Kirill Cholovsky, from GreenShare, presented two apps designed for sustainable mobility: Clacsoon and TESEO.
After the presentations, an in-depth discussion followed, with participants reaching a consensus on several key points regarding the challenges and strategies for reducing private vehicle use, particularly in low-density areas.
Participants acknowledged that completely avoiding private vehicle use is particularly difficult in low-density areas where public transportation options may be limited. However, they emphasized that substantial efforts can be made through the integration of services and systems, as well as promoting shared mobility solutions to reduce environmental impact.
The group agreed that discouraging private vehicle use should be based on a thorough analysis of mobility demand. This analysis is crucial for understanding the actual transportation needs of the population and identifying viable alternatives.
One of the most significant challenges identified is the need to change established habits. Many individuals are not aware of, or do not perceive, the available alternatives to private vehicle use. Changing these habits requires not only the introduction of new mobility options but also effective communication and education to raise awareness about these alternatives.
The discussion highlighted the importance of focusing on two main demographic groups: students and retirees. These groups are more likely to be open to changing their mobility habits and can significantly benefit from alternative transportation options. Initiatives targeting these groups can help reduce the overall reliance on private vehicles and promote the use of shared or public transportation.
A key point emphasized during the discussion was the importance of collaboration between local entities, especially in smaller areas. Effective cooperation among municipalities, transport operators, and other stakeholders is essential for the successful implementation of integrated mobility solutions. This collaboration can lead to more coordinated and efficient transportation systems that better serve the community's needs.
Participants discussed various strategies to integrate and share services, aiming for a lower environmental impact. These strategies include developing interoperable ticketing systems, enhancing multimodal transport options, and creating seamless connections between different modes of transport. By focusing on these areas, communities can offer more convenient and sustainable mobility solutions.
In conclusion, while the elimination of private vehicles in low-density areas presents significant challenges, the discussion underscored that strategic integration of services, accurate demand analysis, habit change initiatives, and strong local collaboration can lead to more sustainable and efficient transportation systems.

TTS Italia participates in the executive program "Management and Innovation of Sustainable Mobility"
TTS Italia took part in the executive program in "Management and Innovation of Sustainable Mobility," organized by Almaviva, TTS Italia supporting member, in collaboration with Luiss Business School. The program provides a comprehensive overview of the emerging technologies that enable the sustainable "new mobility" environment and the innovative solutions that are transforming the sector. It provides participants with useful tools to understand the disruptive potential of digital technologies in the mobility sector. Through comprehensive modules, participants deepen their understanding of value chain changes and new business models enabled by digital technology. In addition, the program enables participants to grasp the challenges and opportunities present in the dynamic landscape of the mobility industry.Lectures for the first module were held on July 10 and 11 at Italiacamp's headquarters in Dubai: introduction to sustainable mobility, megatrends and business challenges, transportation modes, enabling technologies, IoT and Big Data, and marketplace were some of the topics that were covered. Various opportunities for focus group discussions were also offered to share reflections and experiences.The program, coordinated by the Brand & Business Transformation structure team, will continue in September with the second module, "The Mobility Ecosystem".

For more details and to participate, click here.

Sustainable last mile logistics: the opinion of stakeholders matters!
TTS Italia is among the partners of the SPOTLOG (Green and Socially resPOnsible ciTy Logistics InnovaTions) project co-financed by the European Commission within the Interreg Europe programme.
SPOTLOG wants to involve local communities in the creation of socially responsible logistics systems, based on zero carbon emissions methods and through the intelligent use of available resources and the digitalisation of goods and passenger transport services.
In this context, SPOTLOG launched a survey aimed at sector stakeholders to investigate specific issues related to the planning and regulatory framework of last mile deliveries in the various countries represented in the consortium, including Italy.
The investigation is anonymous and aims to:
– collect the general perception of stakeholders on the impacts of last mile logistics
– understand how effective public/private collaboration is in the management of last mile logistics
– understand the role of technological development and the degree of innovation brought by Public Authorities
– define the key players in promoting sustainable last mile logistics
– determine how Public Authorities are managing the environmental impact of last mile deliveries
– determine the optimal ways to promote more sustainable consumer behavior in order to minimize the negative impacts of last mile logistics
– understand the stakeholders' vision of the main difficulties that hinder the use of sustainable means for last mile deliveries.

The survey is available here
We would appreciate your feedback by 31 July. Thanks for your support!

Intermodality and smart mobility: TTS Italia at the WAVE panel
TTS Italia, represented by the President Rossella Panero, took part in the presentation event of the fourth issue of WAVE – Smart Mobility Magazine entitled: Intermodality and smart mobility. Urban transformation in Italy and Europe.
The event took place on 11 July in Turin, sponsored by the City of Turin, and organized in collaboration with YouTrend, Quorum's digital magazine of analysis and infographics on social, economic and political trends.
The central theme on "Intermodality and smart mobility" developed in the magazine will form the basis for the debate. Intermodality, i.e. a coordinated use of multiple means of transport, both urban and extra-urban, is aimed at improving transport efficiency, reducing travel times and decongesting traffic. Meanwhile, smart mobility represents a fundamental step towards more resilient and adaptable cities, promoting a lifestyle that respects the environment and increasing ecological awareness among citizens.
President Panero, in particular, spoke in the session dedicated to intermodality in urban transport, talking about Mobility as a Service.

Intermodality and smart mobility: the new article by TTS Italia on WAVE Magazine
WAVE Magazine dedicates the new issue to intermodality and smart mobility, and TTS Italia has also given its contribution.
In December 2020, the European Commission adopted the Sustainable and Smart Mobility Strategy which proposes a fundamental transformation of the transport system towards sustainable, intelligent and resilient mobility, including a digitalisation process that will contribute to making the entire transport system more efficient, safe and comfortable. The strategy identifies ITS (Intelligent Transport Systems) as a key to achieving truly sustainable mobility that encourages the spread of zero-emission vehicles, promotes personalized mobility services and optimizes road traffic flows.
Among ITS technologies, a notable contribution to the digitalisation of mobility services can be provided by C-ITS (Cooperative-Intelligent Transport Systems) which allow vehicles to interact directly with each other and/or with the surrounding road infrastructure. In this regard, the experience of the C-Roads projects is of fundamental importance.

Read the article (available in Italian)

Webinar “Exploring project funding opportunities for ITS National Organization members across Europe” – PRESENTATIONS AVAILABLE
On 19 June 2024, the Network of National ITS Associations (ITS Nationals), of which TTS Italia is also part, organized the webinar "Exploring project funding opportunities for ITS National Organization members across Europe".
The Network of National ITS Associations (ITS Nationals) is made up of 30 national ITS organizations. Each of their members at the national level is interested in the numerous opportunities for the development and implementation of intelligent transport systems at both European and national levels.
The webinar illustrated examples of the funding possibilities available, including a use case from the NAPCORE (National Access Point Coordination Organization for Europe) project, launched as a coordination mechanism to improve the interoperability of national access points for mobility data exchange European.
Webinar speakers: Ragnhild Wahl, ITS Norway; Fabio Nussio, Rome Mobility Services; Damaris Gruber, Austriatech.
For the presentations, click here.

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TTS Italia supports
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Next Generation Mobility
18-19 September 2024, Turin
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7th Conference on Sustainable Mobility – Climate Crisis and Resilient Transportation Systems
4-6 September 2024, Karditsa, Greece
For further information, click here →

30° ITS World Congress
16-20 September 2024, Dubai, United Arab Emirates
For further information, click here →

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Editor: Olga Landolfi; editorial staff: Leonardo Domanico, Laura Franchi.