YouTube Disclaimer

To play this video, you must accept cookies from US providers. For details, please see Cookie Settings in our Privacy Policy. Consent to the setting of cookies from US providers can be given either here or under Cookie Settings in our Privacy Policy The revocation of consent already given can be done in the same way.

Back to Portfolio

Urbanisation and Environmental Challenges

Many cities face the challenge of balancing congestion, air pollution, noise, accessibility, the preservation of historic buildings, and other pressures of urban life. 
Image shows a congested citiy center © iStock/tupungato
© iStock/tupungato

How Cities Are Facing These Challenges

Traffic is a major contributor to pollution, which in many places reaches levels harmful to human health. As a result, congested, polluted, and noisy urban environments are less attractive for both residents and businesses. This not only impacts quality of life but also harms the economy through reduced productivity and higher costs caused by congestion.

To tackle issues such as poor air quality, noise, congestion, and declining quality of life, many cities are introducing urban management schemes. These initiatives aim to improve public health, encourage cycling and walking, and enhance the overall city experience.

A common approach is the application of intelligent traffic solutions, often implemented through a mix of complementary measures such as:

image shows a low emission zone © iStock/George Clerk

Restricted Traffic Areas (RTA’s)

Thousands of European cities use access regulations to restrict vehicles from entering certain parts of the city. Typically, only local residents and registered vehicles are permitted, helping to protect historic centers and reduce traffic volumes.

Low Emission Zones (LEZ’s)

LEZs focus on environmental protection by limiting access to vehicles that do not meet specific emission standards. These zones target the reduction of harmful pollutants and support cleaner urban mobility.

Urban Road Tolls / Congestion Charging

By charging fees for access to defined city zones, authorities can directly influence traffic flow. Such measures not only discourage unnecessary car trips but also encourage the use of public transport and other sustainable mobility options.

Flexible Control Methods for Urban Mobility Schemes

The effectiveness of these schemes depends on flexible control methods and regulations. Access rules can be permanent or time-dependent, varying during rush hours or episodes of high pollution. Criteria may include vehicle emissions, weight, or axle count. Payment models can also differ — from exemptions for residents and public service vehicles, to fixed or variable fees based on travel frequency or environmental impact.

By combining these measures intelligently, cities can better align traffic management with strategic goals such as sustainability, liveability, and economic vitality.

Image shows an EFKON mobility solution in a city © Lars Korvald/EFKON

EFKON’s Solutions and References for Urban Mobility Schemes

EFKON has delivered numerous references and solutions in the field of Urban Mobility, helping cities create safer, cleaner, and more liveable environments. Our technologies support seamless integration into historic cityscapes while effectively managing complex traffic situations such as stop-and-go movement, short vehicle distances, and varying speed conditions. Our solutions are built on core EFKON technologies, combining advanced camera and video systems optionally with DSRC communication and specialized backend services.

  • Frontend solutions
    Image shows an EFKON mobility solution in a city © Lars Korvald/EFKON

    Frontend solutions

    Our camera-based frontend systems reliably recognize license plates, enabling accurate vehicle identification and classification. Performance and cost efficiency can be further enhanced by EFKON DSRC technology, widely deployed in our solutions. AI/ML-driven algorithms, supported by comprehensive databases, deliver highly accurate make-and-model recognition, ensuring correct authorization of vehicles and assignment to the appropriate payment schemes.
  • Backend solutions
    Image shows EFKON Backend Solution © iStock/NIKOLA MILJKOVIC

    Backend solutions

    At the heart of our systems is EFKON’s Integrated Command & Control Center (ICCC), which serves as the cornerstone for traffic operations, surveillance, and incident management. It provides city administrators with a unified view of real-time urban parameters, empowering informed decision-making and smooth day-to-day scheme operation.  This integrated approach supports efficient governance, strengthens public safety, and contributes to the resilience and sustainability of modern cities.
  • References for Urban Mobility Schemes
    Image shows an EFKON mobility solution in a city © Lars Korvald/EFKON

    References for Urban Mobility Schemes

    EFKON has successfully implemented a wide range of urban mobility solutions across Europe:
    • Oslo and Bergen (Norway): Deployment of urban road tolling systems within central city areas, based on free-flow Video/ANPR and DSRC On-Board Units (OBU), ensuring efficient traffic management and revenue collection.
    • Brussels (Belgium): Delivery of advanced urban toll enforcement solutions, including both fixed installations and mobile, flexibly deployable control stations at key intersections and critical points across the city.
    • Major European Tourist City: Implementation of a comprehensive traffic monitoring and vehicle identification solution, featuring dozens of ANPR and surveillance cameras as well as a central control room to support the local police in managing traffic and enhancing public safety.