An efficient transport system for passengers and goods is of major importance to the European economy. The steady economic growth in the last decades was accompanied by a substantial increase in transport volumes. Road transport was responsible for a major share and is expected to grow by a further 55% (freight) and 36% (passengers) (2000-2020). The challenge for the European Union is to accommodate the increasing demand for road transport while reducing road fatalities, congestion and environmental impact. Intelligent Transport Systems are seen as a key element in the answer to this challenge. Following the publication of the ITS Action Plan (COM(2008)886) and the Directive 2010/40/EU, the European Commission (EC) is working in partnership with Member States and European road operators, service providers and industry to provide the efficient, safe, and environmentally friendly intelligent transport systems which best serve the needs of society. These systems will encourage travellers to make best use of the available transport modes and to support an integrated, sustainable transport system throughout Europe. The scope of this study includes real time information regarding all European transport network connections. In particular it focuses on the Trans-European Road Network (TERN) as well as its interfaces with urban networks and other transport modes, especially public transport (PT). (Author/publisher) For more information, see http://ec.europa.eu/transport/its/studies/its_en.htm
Abstract