A transformative project, known as the TransiT Hub, has garnered £46M in funding to harness digital twins aimed at decarbonising future transport systems.
- This initiative, led by Heriot-Watt University and the University of Glasgow, involves collaboration with eight universities and 67 partners.
- The project is funded by a mix of government bodies, transport operators, vehicle manufacturers, and technology firms.
- Digital twins will enable policy makers to model the impact of future transport scenarios efficiently.
- The research focuses on creating a cost-effective, low-risk pathway to achieve a decarbonised transport system in the UK.
The TransiT Hub, a pioneering initiative exploring the use of digital twins to decarbonise transportation, has secured a substantial investment of £46M. Jointly led by Heriot-Watt University in Edinburgh and the University of Glasgow, this project represents a significant collaboration among eight universities and 67 industry partners. The funding, a mixture from the Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council (EPSRC) and various industry stakeholders, aims to drive innovation in reducing carbon emissions associated with transport.
Digital twins, a core element of this project, will serve as virtual replicas of physical transport infrastructure, enabling detailed analysis and experimentation without the risks of real-world trials. By modelling future transport scenarios, policymakers can better understand the implications of their decisions, paving the way for more efficient and sustainable transport networks. This capability is especially critical as the UK seeks to expedite the integration of low-carbon technologies across its transport networks.
The comprehensive funding structure, with £20M from EPSRC and an additional £26M from transport operators, regulators, and several other sectors, underlines the project’s scale and ambition. TransiT Hub is poised to become one of the largest transport consortiums of its kind, aiming to explore all facets of digital twinning and its potential to swiftly transition the transport sector towards a net-zero future.
Central to this research are the contributions from the partner universities, each bringing their unique expertise. For instance, Heriot-Watt focuses on logistics and freight sustainability, while the University of Glasgow excels in digital twinning and cyber-physical systems. The collaboration also includes the University of Leeds, renowned for its work in transport decarbonisation policy, and Cranfield University, known for advancements in aviation technology.
The innovation does not stop with academic research; it extends into practical applications. With plans to recruit 18 PhD research students, the project will delve into potential future transport systems such as electric roads and alternative fuels. According to Professor Phil Greening, a key figure in the project, “Digital twins will help us see the where, what and how to decarbonise transport.” His insight highlights the strategic importance of digital twins in shaping effective transition strategies for UK transport.
Notably, the project looks to incorporate real-time data from sensors integrated with existing infrastructure, enhancing the accuracy and applicability of the digital twins. This aspect is crucial for testing different scenarios, adjusting strategies, and achieving the most energy-efficient outcomes. In addition to technical metrics, public involvement through citizen research will also inform the project’s direction, ensuring it aligns with societal needs and behaviours.
The commitment to decarbonisation is further underscored by statements from key stakeholders, such as Transport Minister Mike Kane and EPSRC Executive Chair Professor Charlotte Deane, who both emphasise the transformative potential of digital twin technology in achieving greener transport solutions.
By leveraging digital twins, the TransiT Hub aims to create a roadmap for a low-carbon transport future, bolstered by comprehensive research and collaboration.
