To main content

Infrastructure for Automated Road Transport: Strategic Perspectives on Digitalisation, Governance, and Mobility Futures

Abstract

This paper explores the evolving responsibilities of infrastructure managers and authorities in the context of increasingly automated vehicles, from the perspective of Norwegian road authorities. As automation becomes more prevalent in mixed traffic environments, infrastructure systems face new demands, both physical and digital. Through a scenario-based methodology, the study gathers insights from road owners, infrastructure managers, and regional authorities to identify key challenges and opportunities for the governance of automated transport. The findings highlight fragmented governance structures and the urgent need for coherent national strategies to support collaboration and capacity-building. Infrastructure must be strategically prioritised, with a focus on high-impact corridors and real-time information. Participants emphasise the importance of resilient digital ecosystems, robust cybersecurity measures, particularly in northern regions, and legal clarity around data ownership and system interoperability. Funding models must evolve to reflect the societal value of automation. Considering climate stressors and geopolitical uncertainties, the paper argues for infrastructure planning that not only accommodates technological change but also advances broader goals of safety, sustainability, and social equity. In sum, the study provides implications for governance stakeholders at the national and regional level based on the insights from the workshop participants.

Category

Academic article

Language

English

Affiliation

  • SINTEF Community / Mobility

Date

31.10.2026

Year

2026

Published in

Lecture Notes in Mobility

ISSN

2196-5544

Volume

1

Page(s)

360 - 368

View this publication at Norwegian Research Information Repository