Operator O2 Czech Republic has introduced a new mobile application for communication between cars. The application has been developed under the framework of the C-Roads project.
The mobile application works independently, without the need to have a special vehicle unit. Using the application, cars can communicate with each other, but also with traffic signs, railway crossings, public transport vehicles, rescue system vehicles and traffic lights. It can be used by motor vehicle drivers and cyclists.
The aim of the C-Roads project is to increase safety and fluidity on the roads and to start the path towards autonomous transport in the Czech Republic, as well as within the entire European Union. The main goal of the application is to maintain the flow of traffic. Transport infrastructure elements communicate with passing vehicles to enable the app to warn the driver of various dangers in traffic. The system uses so-called hybrid communication, which combines a broadband mobile network and Wi-Fi technology for cars. Interconnection with 5G networks is also planned.
Pilot operation is now taking place on certain sections of the Czech motorways D1, D5, D11, on segments of the Prague ring road, as well as in the cities of Brno, Ostrava, Pilsen and at selected railway crossings.
The application is currently available for devices with the Android operating system but a version for iOS will soon be available. In both cases, it will be free for end-users.
The C-Roads project is being implemented by a consortium of partners under the coordination of the Ministry of Transport of the Czech Republic. The members of the consortium are the minister along with RSD, O2 Czech Republic, T-Mobile Czech Republic, the Railway Administration, and numerous other entities. Implementation of the project is co-financed by the EU's Connecting Europe Facility programme.
