The impact of telecommunications on transportation: Future trends

Telecommunications technology is undergoing a dramatic transformation. Telecommunications services and products are multiplying rapidly. Transportation will feel both positive and negative impacts from these telecommunications developments. On the one hand, existing transportation services will be improved, and innovative transportation techniques will be made possible. On the other hand, new telecommunications services may partially substitute for traditional transportation modes for some applications. This paper discusses some possible impacts of telecommunications on transportation in the future, with emphasis on the potential substitution effects.