Barcelona to pilot AI-driven traffic light management

The Barcelona City Council will introduce artificial intelligence to modernize urban mobility by adapting traffic light timings to real-time vehicle behavior. During 2027, the city will conduct pilot tests for two distinct systems designed to prevent congestion and reduce unnecessary waiting times.

The first system, Matcab by Kapsch, uses AI to modify intersection regulation in real time based on demand, allowing for specific priorities for pedestrians, public transport, or emergency vehicles. The second initiative, Mobia by Acisa, utilizes a digital twin of the road network. This virtual model integrates data from sensors and connected vehicles to predict traffic evolution and coordinate multiple intersections within a corridor to optimize emissions and public transit flow.

The pilot programs, which will each receive 100,000 euros, will last four months and involve installing necessary sensors and infrastructure across various zones in the city.