Intelligent transportation systems: the role of third generation mobile radio networks

A synthetic review is given of the research developed in the past 10 years in the field of short-range communications for intelligent transportation systems. Moreover, the role of new packet mobile radio (such as the General Packet Radio Service) and third-generation systems in the possible provision of services for the field of ITS is discussed; more precisely, the services for driving safety are addressed. The research programs under development in Italy and Japan which can have an impact on the selection of suitable techniques for ITS services are presented.