Liverpool bus digital twin trial will lead to better integrated transport services
The application of a digital twin developed to model bus routes in Liverpool City Region is to be expanded to cover the whole city region and wider transport network, following a successful year-long trial.
Launched in July 2024 and developed through international collaboration, the KUDATA project (Korea-UK Digital Twin Approach for Transport Analysis) has brought together data scientists from the Liverpool City Region and South Korea to create a computer-based copy of the city region’s bus network, including routes, timetables and fares.
During the trial the project team demonstrated the impacts of planned changes to the bus network can be accurately assessed ahead of being introduced.
The about to commence second phase will see the tool expanded to cover the whole city region and the wider transport network incorporating data from rail services, walking and cycling routes and including real-time information on vehicle location, traffic congestion and train signalling.
The enhanced model aims to provide a more comprehensive understanding of how people move around the region and how to better integrate transport services
The Innovate UK funded project is a collaboration between the University of Liverpool’s Department of Geography & Planning, the Digital Innovation Facility, the Liverpool City Region Combined Authority and UK-based technology provider Podaris in partnership with Pusan National University, Sundosoft Busan Techno Park and Busan Metropolitan City in South Korea.
Under the project’s expanded brief, there will also be an increased focus on the use of AI, with smart algorithms automatically suggesting network improvements to make jobs, education and essential services more accessible, particularly for disadvantaged communities.
Cllr Liam Robinson, Liverpool City Region Combined Authority Cabinet Member for Innovation said, "It's fantastic that this innovative new initiative has moved forward to its next phase. Developed in collaboration with partners in South Korea, the University of Liverpool and technology company Podaris, the project demonstrates the significant progress we’re making towards harnessing cutting-edge digital technologies like AI to transform public services in our region for the better.
"By harnessing the power of AI, we'll be able to make even more effective, data-driven decisions, ultimately providing our residents with the world-class network they deserve."
Alex Singleton, Professor of Geographic Information Science at the University of Liverpool said, "This expansion of the KUDATA project represents a significant leap forward in how we can use digital twin technology and AI to transform public transport.
"By creating a comprehensive virtual model of the entire Liverpool City Region transport network, we can test innovative solutions before implementing them in the real world.
"What is particularly exciting is the potential to use AI algorithms to automatically identify improvements that will make essential services more accessible to disadvantaged communities.”
Jinuk Hwang, Assistant Professor at the Department of Urban Planning and Engineering at Pusan National University added, "KUDATA Phase II represents a crucial step toward more integrated, responsive, and equitable mobility systems, not only in Busan but also around the world. By using advanced simulation and data-driven methods, this collaboration allows us to explore transformative transport solutions that can improve access to essential services, especially for underserved communities.
Devon Barrett, Chief Technology Officer at Podaris said, "Phase 2 represents a major milestone in bringing AI-powered transport planning to the real world. Liverpool City Region has been an exceptional partner, embracing cutting-edge technology and pioneering new approaches that will benefit transport authorities across the UK and beyond."