Traffic Light Optimisation for Freight Vehicles
Auckland Transport are initiating a pilot project to help prioritise heavy freight vehicles at selected signalised intersections. Before we test this technology, we would like to get some insights from company representatives in the freight industry.
What we are doing
The pilot project aims to test and assess different types of technologies to connect freight vehicles and traffic signals in the interpeak, to give more green light time and reduce the amount of stopping and starting. One technology solution the project wants to explore is directly connecting heavy freight vehicles GPS to the traffic signals, so that the traffic signals can understand when a freight vehicle is approaching and make changes accordingly. This might look like:
A green light staying green longer than normal to make sure the freight vehicle can get through the intersection without stopping
Shortening or skipping other green light phases so that a green light appears quicker for a freight vehicle approaching before they have to stop
Where we are doing this
We are considering trialing this approach in the following locations:
Great South Road, between Portage Road and Church Street (Penrose)
Church Street-Neilson Street between Great South Road and the SH20 on-ramp (Onehunga)
Great North Road, between West Coast Road and Te Atatu Road (Henderson)
Why we are doing this
Freight vehicles are often impacted by congestion, traffic signal phasing and Auckland’s steep gradients. This often results in stopping and starting at signalised intersections which is difficult for heavy freight vehicles in particular. In the interpeak, when there are less people commuting and more freight vehicles, keeping freight moving is a priority.
What we want your feedback on
Before we test this technology, we would like to get some insights from company representatives in the freight industry. We’d like to know:
Whether this technology could benefit your freight journeys
The GPS systems used across your fleet
The types of vehicles in your fleet
Which trial roads you currently use, and any other difficult intersections
Your interest in taking part in the trial
When can you have your say
Feedback is open 02 June 2026 - 19 June 2026.
How can you have your say
- Complete the online survey
- Ask us a question below - we can respond anonymously by request.
What happens next.
We will analyse the feasibility of this pilot. If it goes ahead, we will reach out to those who registered an interest in having their fleet participate in the pilot. We will also update those who selected to stay in the loop about this pilot in general, via email.
Thank you for your contribution!
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