Author :
Martinez, Francisco J. ; Toh, Chai-Keong ; Cano, Juan-Carlos ; Calafate, Carlos T. ; Manzoni, Pietro
Abstract :
Over the years, we have harnessed the power of computing to improve the speed of operations and increase in productivity. Also, we have witnessed the merging of computing and telecommunications. This excellent combination of two important fields has propelled our capability even further, allowing us to communicate anytime and anywhere, improving our work flow and increasing our quality of life tremendously. The next wave of evolution we foresee is the convergence of telecommunication, computing, wireless, and transportation technologies. Once this happens, our roads and highways will be both our communications and transportation platforms, which will completely revolutionize when and how we access services and entertainment, how we communicate, commute, navigate, etc., in the coming future. This paper presents an overview of the current state-of-the-art, discusses current projects, their goals, and finally highlights how emergency services and road safety will evolve with the blending of vehicular communication networks with road transportation.