UK city pilots AI-based traffic lights to prioritise cyclists over cars

Solihull, the UK's most unlikely tech hub where the coffee remains affordable (for now), is piloting artificially intelligent traffic light technology that stops cars sooner and lets cyclists keep pedalling.

Developed by VivaCity, the sensors detect cyclists up to 30 metres away from the crossing and prompt the signal to change to green earlier, meaning pedal-pushers really need to work for it. Say goodbye to that two-minute breather.

VivaCity’s grey unit attaches to street furniture or buildings which will give the two eye-like cameras the best view of the road. The unit contains a bunch of fancy computer processing components and uses sophisticated cloud-based algorithms to identify various road users (anonymously of course) then control the integrated lights appropriately.

The pilot is all part of an effort by Transport for West Midlands and Solihull Council to make the roads safer for pedestrians and cyclists, and encourage folk to give up their cars and get healthier. The trial starts with a Toucan crossing, because potentially fun fact: those are the ones meant for allowing bikes to cross. (Note: must relearn definition of 'fun'.)

Richard Parker, mayor of the West Midlands, said: “Road safety is a top priority for me, and I want everyone to feel secure when cycling or walking. This project gives us a chance to see how artificial intelligence can make our roads safer by detecting cyclists and pedestrians and manage traffic signals to give them more time to cross safely.

“This is just one part of my plan to make our streets safer and encourage more people to cycle, meaning improved fitness, fewer traffic jams and cleaner air.”

Fewer traffic jams, you say? We can get on board with that.