Rapid urban growth, fragile infrastructure, and swelling populations are reshaping transport networks across much of the developing world. Coupled with higher disposable incomes in certain regions, these pressures have resulted in heavier traffic flows, growing freight volumes, and mounting environmental concerns. Artificial Intelligence (AI) is emerging as a crucial tool to address these challenges, opening access to underserved communities, attracting private sector investment, and transforming the way people and goods move.
More Than Self-Driving Cars
While the media often fixates on autonomous vehicles (AVs), AI’s role in transport is far broader. Intelligent systems are already being applied to manage congestion, fine-tune logistics, predict demand, and optimise journeys – all with the goal of making travel safer, more reliable, and more sustainable. From fine-grained traffic analytics to advanced routing for shipping lanes, the scope of AI extends well beyond the steering wheel.
Unlocking Efficiency in Developing Markets
Emerging economies frequently grapple with high logistics costs – sometimes more than double those of wealthier nations – due to outdated infrastructure and cumbersome customs processes. AI-powered e-logistics platforms are helping bridge these gaps, matching carriers to freight in real time, streamlining supply chains, and trimming wasteful delays. By improving asset utilisation, such systems can help lower operational costs and boost competitiveness.
Predictability and Reliability on the Move
Transport systems thrive on punctuality. Whether in public transit or goods delivery, unreliable timetables erode confidence and deter use. AI forecasting tools, already employed by rideshare giants, are capable of accurately predicting arrival and departure times. Scaling these solutions into public networks could raise service standards worldwide, making buses, trains, and ferries more dependable.
A Safer Journey for All
Road safety remains a pressing concern, particularly where infrastructure is weak and vehicle safety standards lag. While AVs may still be years away from large-scale deployment in emerging markets, the potential is substantial – research suggests they could slash fatalities by as much as 90% in certain countries. Even partial autonomy, such as advanced driver-assistance systems, has already shown significant accident reductions in early trials.
Greener, Cleaner Transport
Transport accounts for nearly a quarter of global energy-related CO₂ emissions, a figure that could triple by mid-century without decisive action. AI can play a decisive role in shrinking this footprint: optimising routes to cut empty miles, improving fuel economy, and enabling innovations such as truck platooning – where convoys of vehicles travel in tight formation to reduce aerodynamic drag. Such measures not only lower emissions but also bring down operating costs.
Harnessing the Opportunity
AI’s potential in transport is vast, but it comes with responsibilities. For countries and companies to fully benefit, they must address challenges in governance, ethics, infrastructure, and skills. Done right, AI could deliver cleaner, more efficient mobility systems that support inclusive growth and help shape a more connected, sustainable future.
