Nobody likes waiting on a red light, especially when there is no traffic coming around from other directions. What, if you never have to stop at an empty red light? Ford is working on Vehicle-to-everything communications technology, also known as V2X, to present a more safe and efficient future. Ford believes that V2X systems can one day eliminate the need for traffic lights while keeping our roads secure and reduce the chances of car crashes.
The carmaker is ready to test Intersection Priority Management (IPM) system in Milton Keynes UK in order to demonstrate the application of their theory. The technology is meant to advise speed adjustments permitting cars to pass an intersection without having to come to a full halt by using human operation as an inspiration to avoid a collision.
Vehicle-to-vehicle (V2V) and IPM, both systems operate in an integrative manner. While V2V calculates the location, direction of travel and speed between cars, IPM tracks upcoming intersections, car paths and the optimal speed at which cars should drive to avoid a crash.
One major drawback to the practical application of this project is the lack of V2V systems in everyday cars. However, Ford plans to develop this for autonomous vehicles so that they do not have to stop on signals.
Ultimately, Ford still holds out hope for success that with the help of V2X technology they will change the future of automobiles, specifically autonomous cars.