Give me five interesting facts and trends in the roads engineering sector
1. Autonomous vehicles are becoming increasingly popular and are being tested on roads around the world. In October 2018, Waymo, the self-driving technology company, became the first company to receive permission from the California Department of Motor Vehicles to operate a commercial autonomous vehicle service.
2. Smart roads are being developed to improve safety, reduce traffic congestion and enhance the overall driving experience. Smart roads use sensors, cameras, and other technology to collect data that can be used to better manage traffic flow and provide warnings on potential hazards.
3. The use of recycled materials in road construction is becoming more common. For example, the use of recycled asphalt pavement (RAP) is becoming increasingly popular due to its cost-effectiveness and environmental benefits.
4. The use of solar-powered roadways is a growing trend. Solar-powered roads are designed to generate electricity while they are being used and can be used to power streetlights, signs, and other roadside features.
5. The use of 3D printing technology is becoming more common in the roads engineering sector. 3D printing can be used to quickly and cheaply construct customized structures for roads, bridges, and other structures.