Road defects and safety design issues could be identified using data from unusual driving patterns, through a partnership between Gaist and Aisin, part of the Toyota Group.
Aisin has developed technology, branded RoadTrace, which is able to detect unusual driving patterns directly from vehicles on the road.
Data is harvested and aggregated from multiple sources, then processed using RoadTrace AI to provide indications of issues around road surface deterioration, signage, lining and road geometry as well as infrastructure design issues.
By providing high-definition visual imagery of these target ‘red’ areas, Gaist will help Aisin deliver a powerful tool to help roads authorities across Europe target danger spots.
The service will help the European Commission’s ‘Vision Zero’ mission to reduce road deaths to zero by 2050, Gaist said.
Steve Birdsall, chief executive of Gaist, said: 'We firmly believe that this revolutionary new offering will bring about a step change in road safety.
'For years big data, connected cars and AI have been overhyped in their ability to meaningfully transform the real world as we know it.
'What this product offers is real innovation, applied in a real-world context to bring about real change. Gaist and Aisin share a vision for using data that is now available through advancements in connected car technology to derive real and useable insights that will benefit all road users.'
Aisin is a leading mobility company that creates responsible and connected mobility solutions for people and goods.
Lorna Payne, business development manager at Aisin, said: 'Aisin is delighted to be working with Gaist to bring our pioneering road safety insights to local authorities, helping them to make informed decisions based on real road usage for safer roads.'
Gaist’s collaboration with Aisin marks the latest in a series of partnerships which are taking its insights into global markets.
These include tie-ups with TRL – the global centre for innovation in surface transport and mobility, Smart Mobility Living Lab and leading data platform Confirm.
