Ruling the road

The internet of things is also taking an important role in larger systems that keep cities and countries running smoothly. The UK already has many “smart” motorways. On these roads, cameras monitor traffic and send information to a computer system. If there are lots of cars on the road, the system can change speed limits and open extra lanes in order to keep traffic flowing smoothly.

In the future, there may be no need for road signs or traffic lights. Traffic systems could communicate with selfdriving cars, planning their journeys and safely guiding them along the quickest route.