Data and digital systems for UK transport: change and its implications

Rapid evolution in digital systems, technology and the availability of data resources are having considerable impacts on the UK’s transport network. To fully capitalise on the potential benefits of these developments, additional research and innovation are needed in terms of digital infrastructure, development of digital skills, and availability and understanding of underlying data resources. This report describes the current state of the UK’s digital infrastructure for the transport network, along with emerging trends and developments. In this report, these developments are contextualised with particular reference to emerging transport systems and networks, particularly related to connected and autonomous vehicles (CAVs) and mobility as a service (MaaS), both of which represent key considerations in the digital realm.
The evidence indicates that, while the UK’s digital coverage is generally suitable for current purposes, gaps remain in terms of geographic coverage, especially in the continued presence of the ‘digital divide’, particularly in reference to rural and urban dichotomies. In addition, the demands of emerging transport technologies in terms of data usage and coverage will likely be significantly higher than those currently experienced, highlighting the need to better future-proof the UK’s digital network. Complementary digital skills and access to data are also recognised as critical players in efforts to fully engage the transport network in digital systems, particularly insofar as they support research, development and the implementation of innovative transport systems. Further considerations related to interdisciplinary training for practical applications in the transport realm will be required to develop a fully comprehensive transport network.