T-Mobile and the City of Bellevue, recognized as one of the top cities in the nation for digital innovation, announced the launch of a joint project that uses network-based Cellular Vehicle-to-Everything (C-V2X) technology and T-Mobile 5G to provide near real-time communications between cars, traffic infrastructure and vulnerable road users ― including pedestrians and cyclists.
In 2022, there were nearly 43,000 traffic related casualties in the United States. Network-based Cellular Vehicle-to-Everything (C-V2X) and 5G are promising technologies in helping to reduce the number of traffic related deaths.
The joint project will benefit any municipality, connected vehicle manufacturer, or intelligent transportation system provider looking to improve safety and well-being on public roadways.
The project supports Bellevue’s Vision Zero initiative, which aims to eliminate road-related fatalities and serious injuries by 2030. To help achieve this goal, T-Mobile will provide cellular connectivity, C-V2X equipment, Internet of Things (IoT) solutions, technical integration and end-to-end testing. The City of Bellevue will utilize these assets to implement and evaluate various C-V2X use cases designed to detect and protect individuals on the road.
The project will leverage T-Mobile's award-winning 5G network to establish reliable and low-latency connections, enabling vehicles and traffic infrastructure to exchange information and notifications about pedestrians and cyclists in near real-time ― even in situations that are beyond visual line of sight. The City of Bellevue and T-Mobile will also make a mobile app available for Bellevue road users to download.
“We are continually looking for ways technology can improve the daily lives of our Bellevue residents, workers and visitors,” said Bellevue Mayor Lynne Robinson. “T-Mobile has been a valuable partner for the Bellevue community, helping us push the possibilities. We’re thrilled to roll out this C-V2X technology pilot and to continue making strides in safety for all users.”
"We are in a fortunate position that empowers us to help make cities safer, starting right within our own community,” said John Saw, EVP and Chief Technology Officer, T-Mobile. “With our advanced network technology, valuable intellectual property and strong partner ecosystem, we have the extraordinary capacity to enhance the safety and well-being of our fellow citizens. And our vision extends beyond Bellevue as we aspire to positively impact our country and contribute to a safer world."
Moreover, as a demonstration to this proactive endeavor, T-Mobile embraces and supports the U.S. Department of Transportation National Roadway Safety Strategy Allies in Action campaign in partnership with the City of Bellevue. This collaborative effort showcases a shared commitment to bridging public and private sectors to help reduce fatalities and severe injuries on America’s roadways.
These C-V2X solutions and early prototyping were developed at T-Mobile’s innovation center, the 5G Hub, located in Bellevue’s Spring District.