The full title of this paper is "Towards a harmonized definition of a Pan-European traffic information service on the Trans-European Road Network, using the technique of the Radio Data System - Traffic Message Channel". The paper presents the results of a working group of experts from FORCE-ECORTIS, who define the basic functional elements of the RDS-TMC Pan-European service, its service requirements, the necessary European coordination to maintain the ALERT service, and who draw up the list of the obstacles still to be overcome to ensure the success of this service. The article exposes the proposed definition and the harmonized vision for the ALERT service, which will provide a continuous and compatible traffic information on the Trans-European Road Network (TERN), from Dublin to Wien and from Helsinki to Lisboa. It highlights some of the recommendations necessary to implement the ALERT service at the operational level. It proposes the essential guidelines to ensure the maintenance and the development of its vision at the European political level. The conclusion emphasises that European success of the ALERT service cannot be reached without partnership between public bodies and private companies. Although the Member States have different national policies for their traffic management and information services, the success of the ALERT service would constitute the best possible showcase for safe mobility along the TERN and for many complementary added-value services in the domain of traffic information.
Samenvatting