Transport is already one of the most disrupted sectors in the economy. However, over the next ten years, the industry’s efficiency and environmental impact will be transformed as vehicles get more interconnected, smarter and cleaner.

Three areas of macro-disruption are set to transform the transport industry over the next ten years

Key areas of disruption

Intelligent Transport Systems (ITSs) will increase the productivity and efficiency of transport systems. 

Cooperative ITS technology, the real-time communication between vehicles and infrastructure, has the potential to be the most disruptive trend of all, enabling fully autonomous automotive networks — aka driverless cars.

The sophisticated use of Big Data will enable resource monitoring and optimisation across transport networks. The analysis of large data sets allows capacity to be better matched with demand, improving vehicle asset management and more effectively managing congestion. Big data tools will drive efficiency across transport eco-systems as diverse as ride-sharing platforms, freight networks, public transport and road pricing networks.

The growth of clean technologies will improve sustainability. As upfront costs decline and perceived value improves, greater adoption of electric vehicles will reduce the environmental impact of the transport industry. Growth in the number of electric vehicles will also disrupt adjacent industries like fuel service stations and car dealers.