Volvo Bus Latin America, Ericsson partner to foster urban mobility

In its bid to deliver next generation ready services for its customers, Volvo Bus Latin America and Ericsson have signed an agreement for localization and customization of Volvo's ITS4Mobility intelligent transport system in order to address the needs of the Latin American market.

The real-time traffic management and passenger information system increases the efficiency of urban transportation systems, thereby contributing to enhanced mobility.

Luis Carlos Pimenta, President of Volvo Bus Latin America, says: "Ericsson is contributing its expertise to develop one of our leading-edge technologies and enhance an existing Volvo product. Together, we will improve urban mobility in cities."

Ericsson will be responsible for development, implementation, support and maintenance of the traffic management and passenger information system - which will be offered commercially by both companies in Latin America. The solution will be developed by Ericsson research and development professionals at the Ericsson Innovation Center located in the city of Indaiatuba, Brazil.

Sergio Quiroga, President of Ericsson Latin America, says: "This partnership is evidence of the transformation that is making so many aspects of daily life easier as we move into the Networked Society. Both transport operators and their users will receive benefits from the increased deployment of technology and, together with Volvo Bus Latin America, we are enabling this."

The customization of the system will, in addition to addressing the needs of cities in Latin America, ensure more agility in supporting transport fleet operators and public administration agencies.

The traffic management and passenger information system is a tool that helps fleet operators to deploy existing resources in a manner that makes urban transportation systems more efficient. Benefits include improved mobility, increased operational productivity and passenger satisfaction.

Bus operators will be able to track their fleet in real time - gaining access to information about travel time, punctuality, and number of buses on each route. This information will enable the bus operators to distribute their vehicles in an optimal manner to address changing passenger flows.

Passengers will also have access to real-time information about bus arrival times. This information will be available via the internet, smartphone applications, text messaging or call centers. Information of this nature will allow passengers to better plan their trips so as to avoid delays and long waiting times.

By combining Volvo's global leadership in sustainable transport and traffic safety with Ericsson's consulting, systems integration and managed services expertise, the companies are able to develop intelligent transport systems that enhance the efficiency, safety and environmental credentials of the transport sector.