In today's fast-paced world, the impact of poor mobility is undeniable. Traffic congestion has become a major issue, with its economic repercussions stretching far beyond mere inconvenience. In our previous blog, we examined the alarming statistics that shed light on the financial toll imposed by inefficient transportation systems. Now, we delve deeper into the subject, to understand why poor mobility comes with a hefty price tag.

Traffic congestion is a persistent problem that continues to escalate

The United States bears witness to its economic consequences, with the country losing over 1% of its annual GDP due to traffic congestion alone, amounting to a staggering $87 billion in losses in 2018.

So what are the Cost Components? To comprehend the true cost of inadequate mobility, we must examine its three primary components:

1. excessive fuel consumption;

2. time losses;

2. and environmental damage.

When we focus solely on the economic aspect, disregarding environmental impact, we are essentially referring to fuel and time losses.

The inefficient movement of vehicles at low speeds contributes to heightened fuel consumption. Studies have consistently shown that the rate of fuel consumption per mile significantly correlates with speed.

Consider the common fuel consumption of 20 mpg. When the average speed drops to 6 mph, the fuel efficiency decreases to 7 mpg. It has a similar effect on CO2 emissions. Reducing the average driving speed in urban areas from 25 to 5 mph leads to an alarming 5.75-fold increase in CO2 emissions.

Figure 1. The correlation between speed and fuel economy

These findings highlight the pivotal role that speed plays in fuel efficiency and the environment.

Our numerous studies demonstrate that during peak hours, individuals endure delays 2.5 times longer than the average time spent on the road (refer Figure 2 for an example). These extended delays, reaching up to 25 min for just 3-4 miles of an arterial road in a small suburb, create significant setbacks for commuters and have substantial economic implications.

Figure 2: Cumulative Traffic Delay

The graph vividly illustrates the time individuals spend on a given street. While the average time hovers around 400 seconds (the blue horizontal line), peak hours, particularly around 13pm, witness delays that are more than double, leaving commuters frustrated and productivity compromised (red line). Evidently, the time spent idling in traffic equates to missed opportunities for productivity and earnings.

It’s worth knowing that the problem of traffic congestion often doesn’t relate to the full street or city. Instead, it tends to concentrate at specific intersections or road segments. Ticon created a tool: Street Cardiogram (Fig. 3). Powered by advanced data analytics and artificial intelligence algorithms, this tool enables city planners and transportation authorities to pinpoint these areas accurately.

Figure 3. Street Cardiogram. Intersection analysis

In order to reduce delays by 80% on this road that spans several miles, it’s enough to implement local measures at only 2 specific points.
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With our understanding on how to alleviate delays and enhance mobility municipalities are presented with an opportunity to reclaim both time and money.
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As we explore the multifaceted aspects of this issue, it becomes evident that tackling poor mobility is not only a matter of convenience but also a significant economic imperative. And in our forthcoming blog, we will delve deeper into effective strategies for alleviating delays.
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Follow our social media for more information.

With our understanding on how to alleviate delays and enhance mobility municipalities are presented with an opportunity to reclaim both time and money.

As we explore the multifaceted aspects of this issue, it becomes evident that tackling poor mobility is not only a matter of convenience but also a significant economic imperative. And in our forthcoming blog, we will delve deeper into effective strategies for alleviating delays.

Follow our social media for more information.