PODTECH Partners with Digital Catapult & TfL for AI Transport Innovation
Selected for the prestigious BridgeAI programme to deliver real-time accessibility solutions for London's transport network.
PODTECH is proud to announce a groundbreaking three-way partnership with Digital Catapult and Transport for London (TfL). Through the BridgeAI programme, we are embarking on a mission to solve complex accessibility challenges within one of the world's busiest transport networks using cutting-edge Artificial Intelligence.
Enhancing Transport with AI
The modern commuter demands reliability and transparency. This partnership leverages PODTECH's engineering prowess to process vast amounts of sensor data in real-time. By integrating our AI models with TfL's existing infrastructure, we aim to provide actionable insights that improve journey quality for millions of passengers daily.
Digital Catapult's involvement ensures that these innovations are scalable, ethical, and aligned with the UK's broader strategy for AI adoption in critical national infrastructure.
AI-Driven Solutions for London Bus Network
Our primary focus is the London Bus network, specifically targeting the availability of wheelchair spaces—a critical pain point for accessible travel.
Key Features
- Real-Time Occupancy Detection: Using computer vision to instantly identify if wheelchair spaces are occupied by pushchairs, luggage, or other passengers.
- Dynamic Data Feeds: Broadcasting status updates directly to bus stop displays and mobile apps via TfL's open data API.
- Predictive Analytics: Analysing historical data to predict capacity bottlenecks and optimize route planning.
Benefits for UK Transport Sector
This project represents a shift from reactive to proactive transport management. For passengers with accessibility needs, it removes the anxiety of the "unknown" before boarding a bus. For operators, it means smoother boarding processes, reduced dwell times at stops, and improved overall service efficiency.
As Seen In
The announcement has garnered significant attention across the transport and technology sectors, highlighting the importance of AI in public services.