Kapsch TrafficCom AG implements “comprehensive traffic data collection system” (FVE) for ASFINAG: The first step towards “intelligent roads” is now a reality.

The “comprehensive traffic data collection system” (FVE) has been in successful operation for Austria’s autobahn and motorways since January 2007. It provides the framework for an intelligent traffic management and information system (VMIS) on Austria’s autobahn and motorway system.
Kapsch TrafficCom was able to complete the installation of the traffic data collection system, which forms the basis of this modern and highly complex traffic telematics system, in only a few short months.

By the year 2015, the amount of traffic on Austria’s autobahns and motorways is supposed to increase by approximately 30 percent. In order to prepare for this growth, the organisation of existing domestic traffic routes must be optimised. According to ASFINAG Verkehrstelematik GmbH, the capacity of Austria’s autobahns can be increased by up to 15 percent. However, this requires modern traffic management and information systems, which ASFINAG Verkehrstelematik GmbH currently installs and operates. These systems, in turn, are based on “comprehensive traffic data collection.” The data collected undergoes a detailed analysis to ensure that optimal traffic information is always available to traffic subscribers.

Kapsch TrafficCom was able to install this “comprehensive traffic data collection system” in just under 4.5 months after tendering the offer and being awarded the contract by ASFINAG Verkehrstelematik GmbH. Up to four installation teams worked simultaneously laying 9,000 meters of cable on Austria’s autobahns and motorways, equipping sensors as well as implementing other details (equipping 125 toll stations, logistics and coordination with the agencies in charge of toll road maintenance). Despite numerous large international projects, Kapsch was able to transition from testing to regular operation for the Austrian system at the end of December 2006. The FVE is already showing good results: The availability of data transmissions between 544 sensors on 125 toll stations and the ASFINAG Traffic Management and Information Centre (VMIZ) is already over 98 percent. The data is processed centrally in the VMIZ, digitised on an electronic street map and is used as the basis for speed limitations and/or traffic congestion warnings.

“This comprehensive traffic data collection system from Kapsch has made an essential contribution to bringing Austria’s traffic network closer to the goal of intelligent roads,” explains Erwin Toplak, board of directors Kapsch TrafficCom. “We were very pleased that we were able to implement this project successfully significantly faster than expected due to our years of experience and our leading market position in traffic telematics.” Norbert Deweis, Director ASFINAG Verkehrstelematik GmbH: The significance of an intelligent and efficient traffic management system will only increase because traffic is supposed to grow 40 percent by 2015 – corresponding to an annual rate of approximately 3 percent – and in the high-ranking network by 30 percent. Motorway control systems essential for customer information are being set up wherever road capacity is no longer sufficient to ensure free-flowing and safe traffic. Both the systems in Tyrol and Vienna on the S 1 demonstrate what the “thinking” roads of tomorrow will look like.”

Kapsch TrafficCom AG specialises in systems and components for road traffic telematics and railway communication: With 100 installed systems in 30 countries, the company’s market-leading position is assured. With its high-tech tolling systems, Kapsch TrafficCom has conquered the top position in this future-oriented market over the last 10 years. One of its most well-known projects is the comprehensive lorry toll system in Austria: In this project, Kapsch TrafficCom acted as the technology supplier, system integrator and technical operator. Currently, Kapsch TrafficCom is the market leader in fully-electronic toll systems with subsidiaries in Sweden, Italy, Australia, Chile, Argentina, Malaysia and including Kapsch Components KG, Kapsch Telematic Services GmbH will take over the operator role for future toll contracts. The company employs more than 650 people worldwide of which approx. 100 are active in research & development.