DfT launches Transport Artificial Intelligence Action Plan
The Department for Transport (DfT) has launched its Transport Artificial Intelligence Action Plan, a 23-point plan which sets out how the Government is using artificial intelligence (AI) “to improve transport for everyone”.
The plan sets a vision for an AI enabled future transport system as “responsible AI embedded in a resilient transport system delivering cheaper, cleaner, and safer journeys for all.”
Writing in the foreword Transport Secretary Heidi Alexander says, “Artificial intelligence could be transformative for transport. It can help us tackle some of the biggest challenges we face as a country, enabling us to reduce our carbon emissions, improve our air quality, enhance our mobility and safety, integrate transport and create new jobs and industries. AI is capable of unlocking new opportunities for growth, innovation and inclusion, creating a transport system that works for everyone.
“But it is not without risks and challenges – we need to get this right. How do we make sure that AI for transport is accountable, safe and transparent? How do we manage the impact of AI on our workforce and skills? How do we ensure that AI is fair and inclusive, and does not discriminate or exclude?
“We need to have a clear vision and a strong framework for how we want to use AI in transport. That is why I’m bringing forward this Transport Artificial Intelligence Action plan, the first of its kind. This is a series of actions that will harness the vast benefits of AI for transport.
“I want to see AI enable more reliable infrastructure which is cheaper to construct; better coordinated transport where road, rail and the other modes truly talk to one another for the benefit of passengers; and a more robust system which is better able to react to and recover from things like bad weather.
“We are at a critical moment in the development and deployment of AI in transport and across our society. We have a unique opportunity to shape the future of transport with AI, and to ensure that it serves the public interest.
“AI is not a distant future. It is here and now, and it can change transport for the better. But we need to act now to shape the future of transport with AI and ensure that it serves the public interest and reflects our common values.”