Transport technology offers economic opportunities

The Ministry of Transport and BusinessNZ are joining forces to put out a study that will look at how new transport innovations can benefit the economy.

“The potential of self-driving cars and their associated economic opportunities are often the focus of research and investment, but there are many other aspects of the transport system which present economic opportunities,” transport minister Simon Bridges says.

“I want to see businesses positioned to flourish in New Zealand as intelligent transport systems (ITS) are commercialised.”

The study will be overseen by an advisory group chaired by Opus chief executive Dr David Prentice.

It also includes the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment and a range of other players from the public and private sectors.

“The study is expected to be completed by the end of 2017, and will make recommendations for how we can develop and grow ITS market opportunities where we have a competitive advantage, and identify areas to be strengthened,” Bridges says.

“There are companies in New Zealand already working in the growing ITS market, as well as companies who could do so. A number of international companies have also expressed interest in developing their ITS technologies in New Zealand.

Attracting international companies to come and develop their technology here will have significant benefits for transport in New Zealand, and the broader economy, Bridges says.