5G is the fifth-generation mobile network, which promises to lead to a revolution, particularly in transportation. This article focuses on connected and automated mobility (CAM), an offspring of 5G. CAM lets vehicles communicate with each other and with the surrounding infrastructure. Such communication can, in fact, enhance road safety, ease traffic jams, and cut CO2 emissions. With this in mind, countries worldwide are diligently working on developing 5G cross-border corridors.
5G cross-border corridors are networks that connect transportation routes. These routes, whether along roads, railways, or waterways, maintain 5G connectivity across international borders. This connectivity is vital for CAM’s full-scale use, potentially transforming transportation in Europe and beyond.
The European Commission recognizes the significance of 5G cross-border corridors in Europe’s digital strategies. They’ve endorsed and funded their development. The EU’s primary initiative is the 5G Infrastructure Public Private Partnership (5G PPP). This partnership with the European ICT industry aims to speed up 5G technology development and deployment. Notably, the 5G PPP funds projects like 5G-CARMEN, 5GCROCO, and 5GMED, testing 5G CAM technology on cross-border portions of highways, rail, waterways, and airline corridors.
Creating uniform rules and standards for 5G cross-border corridors is a priority for 5G PPP. Such standards would ensure consistent 5G CAM cross-border corridor deployment throughout the EU. In addition, the EU funds research programs, including 5G AUTOPILOT. This initiative integrates the Internet of Things (IoT) with vehicles, enabling complete automation. The IoT eco-system involves vehicles, infrastructure, and surroundings focusing on the safety in automated driving. The European Commission’s real-world scenario testing plans presently span pilot sites in Finland, France, the Netherlands, and Italy. The results obtained from these tests would subsequently allow for multi-criteria evaluations. They also collaborate internationally to set standards for 5G cross-border corridors.
Serbia is actively pursuing the development of 5G cross-border corridors. In 2018, Serbia, Bulgaria, and Greece signed a letter of intent to create an experimental corridor from Belgrade through Sofia to Thessaloniki. Serbia also partners with Romania and Bulgaria on a corridor along the Danube River, underscoring regional 5G network collaboration.
5G cross-border corridors offer numerous advantages:
In conclusion, 5G technologies and cross-border corridors could redefine transportation as we know it. They consequently facilitate continuous CAM connectivity across borders. Indeed, the EU and Serbia view them as pivotal to promoting mobility facilitated through high-speed, low-latency connectivity required for CAM to operate securely and efficiently.
Authors: Nemanja Sladaković, Žarko Popović
