Intelligent Transportation Systems Advances with 6G, 5G and AI-Driven Networks

Communication technologies are pivotal to realising the full potential of Intelligent Transportation Systems, and a new white paper comprehensively examines the current landscape and future direction of these vital links across rail, road, air, and drone networks! Shrief Rizkalla (Silicon Austria Labs), Adrian Kliks (Poznan University of Technology), and Nila Bagheri (Instituto de Telecomunicações, DEM Universidade da Beira Interior) lead the research, alongside Miguel A. Bellido-Manganell, Anila Asghar et al, in a detailed analysis of how improved communication can drive automation and efficiency! This work is significant because it not only identifies the key technological enablers , including 5G, 6G, and AI-driven network control , but also proposes a unified framework for modelling, testing, and standardisation to ensure seamless interoperability between diverse transport modes! Ultimately, the paper champions collaboration to build resilient and adaptive communication infrastructures for the future of transport.

Transport Communication Systems Analysis and Validation is critical

Scientists meticulously investigated communication technologies underpinning modern transport systems, aiming to establish a unified understanding of how these solutions drive automation and efficiency across railways, roads, aircraft, and drones! The research team structured their work into eight chapters, beginning with an introduction and then dedicating specific sections to railway, UAV, aircraft, and vehicle-to-everything (V2X) communication, each exploring unique channel modelling and experimental validation techniques. Chapter 6 focused on interoperability, detailing key standards from IEEE, 3GPP, ISO, and SAE, alongside spectrum allocation policies, while Chapter 7 outlined future trends including cell-free massive MIMO and digital twins! Researchers began by comprehensively analysing railway communication, focusing on train-to-ground (T2G) and train-to-train (T2T) links, employing both established and emerging technologies.

The study pioneered an examination of Transmission-Based Signaling (TBS) systems like ERTMS and CBTC, noting the current reliance on GSM-R, slated for replacement by FRMCS by the 2030s, and the increasing adoption of IEEE 802.11 and 4G/5G for CBTC metro lines! Experiments employed real-world railway environments to gather channel sounding results, subsequently utilising these data to refine channel modelling techniques and validate simulations, critical for designing robust systems capable of supporting fully-automated (GoA4) lines. The work detailed the emerging concept of Virtually Coupled Train Sets (VCTS), where trains operate as a single unit without physical connections, demanding ultra-reliable, low-latency T2T communication and synchronised control systems! Scientists mapped communication architecture, differentiating between T2G, intra-consist, and T2T links, with a particular emphasis on safety-critical scenarios, illustrated in Figure 2.1 of the study.

They assessed technologies including the legacy GSM-R, the future FRMCS, IEEE 802.11p/bd, and 3GPP LTE/5G V2X, meticulously comparing their performance characteristics in the challenging railway environment. Furthermore, the team addressed the complexities of modelling highly dynamic and non-stationary wireless environments, optimising performance across varied terrains, and ensuring seamless transitions between T2T and T2G communication domains! This innovative approach, combining empirical data with advanced modelling, promises to shape the development of safer, faster, and smarter railway systems, paving the way for increased line capacity and operational flexibility, particularly through the implementation of VCTS.

Railway Channel Sounding for Intelligent Transport Systems enables

Researchers have meticulously analysed communication technologies vital for modern and future Information and Communication Technology (ICT) systems! The study establishes a foundational understanding of how communication solutions drive automation and efficiency across railways, road vehicles, aircraft, and unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs). Crucially, the work identifies key communication requirements and technological enablers for interoperable and reliable Intelligent Transportation Systems (ITS) operation. Detailed channel sounding in railway environments was undertaken, revealing critical insights into signal propagation characteristics.

Experiments demonstrate the importance of accurate channel modelling and empirical validation for designing efficient, robust, and scalable communication systems. The team measured components of Air-to-Ground (A2G) channel modelling, establishing a framework for understanding signal behaviour between UAVs and ground infrastructure. Specifically, the research details the measurement of path loss, shadowing, and multipath fading, essential parameters for optimising wireless links. Data shows that cooperative awareness systems require precise timing and location information, driving the need for advanced localisation techniques.

Tests prove the feasibility of drone-mounted base stations to extend network coverage and enhance connectivity in challenging environments. Passive localisation techniques were investigated, achieving positioning accuracy within a 3-meter radius under ideal conditions. Active localisation, utilising signal triangulation, further refined accuracy to below 1 meter in controlled scenarios. Furthermore, the study evaluated Vehicle-to-Vulnerable Road User (VRU) channel models, measuring signal attenuation and interference levels in realistic urban settings. Link-level performance evaluations revealed that robust communication with VRUs requires adaptive modulation and coding schemes.

The research also explored Learning Assisted Content Delivery in Fragmented Vehicular Networks, utilising a DeepNDN approach. Numerical evaluation demonstrated a 15% improvement in content delivery efficiency compared to traditional routing protocols. Regarding interoperability, the study highlights the evolution of ITS standards, from Wi-Fi-based DSRC/WAVE to cellular-based C-V2X and NR-V2X. Current standardization activities within 3GPP, IEEE, SAE, and ISO were analysed, revealing a convergence towards unified communication protocols. Future trends investigated include Cell-free Massive MIMO networks, which promise increased capacity and improved reliability.

Measurements for vehicular applications showed a 20% increase in spectral efficiency compared to traditional cellular deployments. The team also examined spectrum management strategies, proposing dynamic frequency allocation schemes to address spectrum scarcity. Finally, the potential of Intelligent Surfaces and Antennas, alongside Digital Twins for wireless V2X communications and Integrated Sensing and Communication (ISAC) in ITS, were explored, paving the way for next-generation transportation systems.

ITS Communication Needs and Technological Limits are constantly

Researchers have comprehensively analysed the state of the art in communication technologies vital for modern and future Information and Communication Technology (ICT) systems! This work establishes a common understanding of how communication solutions enhance automation and efficiency across railways, road vehicles, aircraft, and unmanned aerial vehicles.