Artificial intelligence is set to play a central role in transforming the UK's road and rail networks, with continued government investment in digital technology expected to improve reliability, reduce delays and support economic growth.
Speaking at the Transport AI Summit in Parliament on Tuesday, Ruth Cadbury MP, chair of the Transport Select Committee, said AI and data-based technologies will be key to tackling long-standing issues such as potholes, congestion and train delays. The event, organized by Chamber UK, brought together MPs, transport operators and technology firms to discuss how automation and analytics can modernize national infrastructure.
Cadbury praised the government's commitment to working with specialist technology providers to improve road maintenance and rail performance, arguing that faster and more reliable connectivity is essential for job creation and regional growth.
“The UK’s transport network drives economic activity across the country,” he told delegates. “Using AI and digital tools more effectively can help us maintain roads better, run trains more reliably and ensure the network supports growth for years to come.”
Attendees were treated to a live demonstration of Robotiz3D, an autonomous system designed to detect, prevent and repair potholes using AI-powered scanning and robotics. Proponents say such technologies could significantly reduce the costs and disruption associated with reactive road repairs.
However, speakers also warned that increased reliance on AI must be matched with stronger cybersecurity protections.
Graeme Stewart, head of public sector at Check Point Software, said transportation systems will become an increasingly attractive target for cybercriminals as they become more connected and data-driven.
“AI is set to play a major role in the future of UK transport infrastructure, so it is vital that the right safeguards are built in from the start,” he said. “Hackers have already shown that no sector is off limits. Roads and railways are critical national infrastructure, and policymakers must ensure that resilience is treated as a priority.”
Rail technology experts also highlighted the economic benefits of smart transportation systems.
Darren Wood, chief technology officer at Resonate Group, said modernizing transportation through AI and real-time data will help unlock productivity gains across the economy.
“A fully optimized transport network supported by the latest digital capabilities is essential for future growth,” he said. “Roads and rail connect businesses, people and opportunities. Using AI to improve travel and reliability is the right direction for travel for the UK.”
The summit underlined the growing cross-party and industry consensus that AI will play a decisive role in the next phase of transport investment – provided it is deployed safely, strategically and at scale.
jamie young
Jamie is a senior reporter at Business Matters, with over a decade of experience in UK SME business reporting. Jamie has a degree in Business Administration and regularly attends industry conferences and workshops. When Jamie is not reporting on the latest business developments, he is passionate about mentoring budding journalists and entrepreneurs to inspire the next generation of business leaders.