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Connected trams

West Midlands transforms trams with Vodafone 5G network

Vodafone is improving tram safety and accessibility through work with West Midlands 5G (WM5G) and GoMedia as part of the UK’s first multi-city 5G test bed

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Plugging CCTV systems into the 5G network gives operators secure and real-time information on the status of every tram
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Instant information helps ensure public safety around the clock, reduce congestion and determine the effectiveness of measures put in place
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New ways of working means operators could replicate the same approach at stops and stations, further safeguarding passengers and managing capacity

Instant access to information

Staff are usually restricted to downloading information such as CCTV footage, performance and maintenance data outside of operation hours.

By harnessing the high-speed, high-capacity and low-latency capabilities of 5G, a transport operator no longer needs to wait and can access all this information remotely and securely in real-time.

“I want the West Midlands to be at the forefront of 5G, using the technology to find new ways of working, travelling and staying connected.”

Andy Street, Mayor of the West Midlands

Improved public safety

The access to real-time information will improve public safety and solve many accessibility issues. When an issue arises, the programme sends an alert to staff who receive a live video stream over the 5G network, straight to their device.

Until now, this hasn’t been possible on other technologies, but thanks to 5G’s low latency, high bandwidth and capacity, delivering enhanced passenger safety is now achievable.

An informed and up-to-date operator will be far more responsive in maintaining passenger safety – a key consideration in the post-COVID world.

Also the extra information will help them assess the effectiveness of different measures taken. They’ll be able to detect people and objects far more quickly, and work out where to improve accessibility.

Riding a 5G-connected tram

New ways of working with 5G

“We’ve seen how vital good connectivity is during this pandemic,” said Andy Street, Mayor of the West Midlands, “not only keeping many businesses going, but keeping friends and families connected.

“That’s why I want the West Midlands to be at the forefront of 5G, using the technology to find new ways of working, travelling and staying connected.”

This approach could also extend to stops and stations, helping operators to manage capacity in any situation, enforce social distancing or check for potential hazards.

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