As we stand on the cusp of a mobility revolution, one question keeps surfacing in my conversations: How are smart cities leveraging 5G networks to improve mobility? It's a fascinating topic, not just because of the technology involved but because of its potential to reshape our urban living experience. In my work as an urban planner and transportation enthusiast, I’ve witnessed the transformative promise of 5G in real-time. Let me take you on a journey into how this technology is redefining transportation in smart cities.
What Makes 5G a Game-Changer for Smart City Mobility?
For starters, 5G brings extraordinary speed, ultra-low latency, and the ability to connect millions of devices simultaneously. Traditional 4G or older network infrastructures simply don't support the density or the real-time requirements of a truly connected urban environment. In a mobility ecosystem, these three attributes alone unlock entirely new possibilities.
For example, with 5G, vehicles—whether autonomous or not—can send and receive massive volumes of data almost instantly. This opens the door for safer and more efficient systems, from vehicles avoiding collisions using real-time data, to dynamic traffic management systems that ease congestion during rush hours. Imagine cars and traffic lights essentially “talking” to each other—5G makes this a reality.
Autonomous Vehicles Thrive with 5G
For anyone following the autonomous driving space, you’ll know the challenges aren't just technical but also logistical. Autonomous vehicles (AVs) need to process and exchange incredible amounts of data to function safely. This is where 5G truly shines.
Latency—a term for the delay in network signal—is a major factor for AVs. With 4G networks, the delay might still be too long, but 5G reduces this lag to almost negligible levels (down to one millisecond). Companies like Tesla, Waymo, and even traditional automakers like BMW and Volvo are poised to benefit as 5G allows autonomous driving systems to make split-second decisions that could save lives.
One real-world example is Ford’s collaboration with Vodafone in Europe to develop Cellular Vehicle-to-Everything (C-V2X) technology. This system allows vehicles to communicate with everything from traffic lights to roadside infrastructure to other vehicles—and it all hinges on the capabilities of 5G.
Public Transport Systems Get an Upgrade
Smart cities aren’t just about personal vehicles. Public transport systems also stand to gain tremendous advantages from 5G connectivity. In cities like Seoul and London, we’re seeing pilot programs that use 5G to optimize bus and train schedules. Sensors on buses and metro cars generate live data about ridership, traffic patterns, and potential delays. This allows transport agencies to adjust services dynamically, improving both efficiency and the user experience.
Let’s also talk about real-time passenger information systems. Have you ever waited at a bus stop and seen incorrect or outdated arrival information? With 5G, those errors are far less likely, as all the data being processed and presented is updated in real time. Passengers benefit from a more predictable and seamless journey—and let’s be honest, who wouldn’t love fewer transport headaches?
Micromobility and 5G: A Perfect Match
One of the fastest-growing trends in urban mobility is micromobility—think e-scooters, bikes, and other small-scale transport solutions. These devices require constant network connectivity for users to locate, unlock, and ride them. They also benefit from data-sharing networks that track their availability, routes, and wear-and-tear.
Startup companies like Lime and Bird are already experimenting with how 5G can take their services to the next level. For example, 5G enables faster, more reliable connections between smartphones and micromobility fleets, improving user experience. Additionally, cities can use the aggregated data from these devices to better understand urban movement patterns and develop smarter infrastructure.
Dynamic Traffic Management with 5G
One of my favorite examples of smart cities leveraging 5G is dynamic traffic management. Think about it: how much time do you spend stuck in traffic each year? According to INRIX’s Global Traffic Scorecard, cities like Los Angeles and New York are notorious for their congestion. But 5G is helping turn the tide.
In cities like Hangzhou, where Alibaba assists in running the “City Brain” platform, 5G is being used to process traffic data in real time. Dynamic algorithms analyze traffic flows and instantly adapt traffic light patterns. The result? Reduced congestion, shorter travel times, and lower CO2 emissions across the city. Imagine what could happen if every major city adopted these systems—urban mobility would become significantly more efficient and environmentally friendly.
Smart Infrastructure for a Smarter Future
5G is also contributing toward the development of smart infrastructure. Connected roadways, for instance, are becoming more sophisticated with embedded sensors that relay information to centralized systems. These systems can provide predictive maintenance, identifying potholes or other infrastructure needs before they become safety hazards.
One inspiring example is Norway’s pilot project “DigiFerry,” which combines 5G connectivity and autonomous technology to operate driverless ferries for short crossings. This innovative approach not only reduces manpower but also ensures smooth and sustainable operation. The key here is the seamless communication between the ferry, docking stations, and passenger systems—all powered by 5G.
The Role of Private-Public Partnerships
None of this would be possible without collaboration between governments, private companies, and telecom providers. Initiatives like the European 5G Public-Private Partnership (5G PPP) are already showing how fruitful these alliances can be in testing and rolling out cutting-edge mobility solutions. Cities around the world—Barcelona, Singapore, and Helsinki, for example—are working with 5G providers like Ericsson and Nokia to propel smarter mobility systems forward.
