ITS European Congress showcases cutting-edge solutions driving Europe’s transport transition
The ITS European Congress, held from 19 to 21 May in Seville, Spain, has emerged as a pivotal event showcasing innovative and cutting-edge transport solutions across Europe. This landmark congress focuses on the evolving challenges faced by transport networks under the dual pressures of decarbonisation and modernisation, framing discussions on how decision-makers can balance ambitious sustainability targets with infrastructure demands and social needs.
The congress explores a wide range of practical strategies designed to address the complexities of today’s transport transition. Key highlights include the advancement of bi-directional vehicle-to-grid (V2G) technology, which facilitates energy flow from electric vehicles back to the grid, thereby enhancing energy grid optimisation. This technology is transforming traffic management key performance indicators (KPIs) by enabling a more responsive and efficient use of resources. Such advances not only support decarbonisation efforts but also help improve the resilience and effectiveness of transport systems.
Another central theme at Seville’s congress is the implementation of large-scale, citizen-centred mobility pilots. These initiatives place user experience and social inclusivity at the heart of sustainable urban mobility design, reflecting a shift towards collaborative and empathy-driven approaches. This methodology is crucial for developing transport solutions that meet practical, everyday needs while supporting long-term ecological goals.
The event also highlights ambitious European projects like MetaCase and the City Moonshot, which are setting new standards in electric and autonomous transport solutions. These projects represent a concerted effort to pioneer technologies and frameworks that could redefine urban mobility and pave the way for smarter, greener cities.
Highways Voices, in partnership with the Transport Technology Forum, LCRIG, ADEPT, and ITS UK, has been providing extensive coverage and analysis from the ITS European Congress. The podcast series offers a platform where experts and decision-makers discuss the strategic insights and real-world innovations presented at the event. Listeners gain access to perspectives on the future of highways and smart mobility, emphasising the interconnected roles of technology, policy, and societal engagement.
The ITS European Congress in Seville has thus become a critical convergence point for stakeholders across the transport sector, including associations, confederations, and trade bodies. By focusing on collaborative, technology-driven approaches to sustainable mobility, the congress sets a precedent for how the industry can navigate the evolving landscape of European transport infrastructure.
This event also exemplifies how organisations within the sector are serving their members by fostering knowledge exchange, networking opportunities, and showcasing initiatives that have the potential to accelerate the transition towards decarbonised and efficient transport systems. As such, the congress represents both a forum for innovation and an indicator of broader trends impacting the future of transport across Europe.