A new research project led by Heriot-Watt University and the University of Glasgow is exploring how digital twins can help reduce carbon emissions in the UK’s transport systems.
Digital twins are digital models of physical systems that collect and analyse data in real time.
This technology will be used to test and improve strategies for decarbonising various transport sectors, including road, rail, air and maritime.
The project is supported by industry partners from the digital, energy and transport sectors, providing data and £26 million in support.
TransiT will also work with passenger groups to study travel behaviour.
Personalised digital twin assistants could provide customised travel options by learning individual preferences, similar to how streaming services like Netflix suggest content based on viewing habits.
Transport Minister Mike Kane said: “Digital twinning is a powerful technology that can help us integrate transport networks, improve efficiency and deliver greener transport for all.”
TransiT joint director Professor Phil Greening, of Heriot-Watt University, said: “Transport accounts for about a third of UK carbon emissions and, with global temperatures rapidly rising, we have run out of time to carry out real world transport trials and learn from them.
“So, if the UK is to meet its carbon reduction commitments, we have to do our experiments digitally. We need to design the future transport system and optimise the transition to it.”
