Promotion of Traffic Demand Management (TDM)

In the latest national energy policy “Strategic Energy Plan of Japan, March 2014”, the importance of ITS, which is the key technology for TDM, is reiterated as a measure to control the energy demand in the nation. The TDM, Transportation Demand Management, refers to systems and structures designed to improve efficiency in transportation, leveling out traffic volumes in both time and space, thereby reducing emissions and conserving energy. Reducing congestion and facilitating smooth transportation are the aim. Traffic control is upgraded by improving bypasses, circular streets and intersections. Park-and-ride and ride-sharing systems are promoted, and staggered commuting and flextime systems have been introduced. Also as a similar measure, the promotion of the new Intelligent Transport Systems, ITS, has also been implemented. This system also uses the most advanced IT technology that integrates the connection between cars and people into a single system. This system is expected to better solve transportation problems such as congestion, accidents and environmental degradation. Research and development of ITS technology is also actively conducted in this field.

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