UTTRI’s research is characterized by its interdisciplinary scope, bringing together experts from engineering, urban planning, computer science, operations research, economics, and policy studies. Research activities are highly relevant to both local and global transportation challenges, including congestion, environmental sustainability, and the transition to smart cities. Research projects span both applied and theoretical domains, with an emphasis on real-world applicability. For example, UTTRI’s work on dynamic traffic signal systems and electric bus fleet optimization directly influences urban transportation planning in cities across Canada. In addition, collaborations with industry and government agencies ensure that research is closely aligned with current urban mobility needs and policy objectives. UTTRI members are internationally renowned for high quality research in transportation from the perspectives of engineering, science and humanities.
UTTRI’s research agenda is centered around addressing the evolving needs of urban transportation systems, with a focus on sustainable, efficient, and equitable solutions. The major research themes and priorities include:
- Sustainable Transportation: Fostering environmentally responsible transportation systems, including electric and hybrid vehicles, and promoting low-carbon public transit solutions.
- Smart Mobility and Technology: Investigating the potential of emerging technologies, such as autonomous vehicles, AI-driven traffic and transit management systems, urban logistics and real-time data integration, to optimize transportation networks.
- Mobility-Oriented Development: Exploring strategies to improve the efficiency of urban transportation networks through the design and implementation of multi-modal transport systems.
- Transportation Policy and Planning: Analyzing the social, economic, and environmental impacts of transportation decisions and developing policies that support inclusive, equitable, and resilient urban transportation infrastructures.
- Infrastructure and Network Optimization: Developing models to optimize the use of existing infrastructure and resources, such as dynamic traffic signal control and the integration of different modes of transportation.