Ealing Council has begun a new project aimed at enhancing road safety through the use of cutting-edge imaging technology and artificial intelligence (AI).

In collaboration with AI technology provider XAIS, the council has introduced MAVIS, an acronym for Mapping and Visual Imaging Scooter. 

MAVIS is a mobility scooter equipped with advanced technology to gather precise data concerning the condition of pavements and cycle paths within the borough. 

The mobility scooter will navigate the streets, collecting data regarding the state of all paved footpaths and cycleways. 

Subsequently, this data will be analysed to gain insights into conditions and accessibility challenges throughout the borough. 

When the scooter encounters areas it cannot access, it will automatically highlight them as spots with accessibility issues. 

Such issues might include overgrown hedges, steps, or other obstructions that the council can then address. 

This initiative has the potential to revolutionise highway maintenance and transportation, aligning with the council's commitment to offer more eco-friendly mobility alternatives for residents and visitors. 

It allows for the assessment of footway and cycleway quality, width, trees, and other street elements to create safe, healthy, pleasant, and accessible environments for our residents. 

Councillor Deirdre Costigan, cabinet member for climate action, said: "We are committed to becoming a beacon of sustainability in London. 

"By harnessing the power of AI, we want to create a transportation system that not only reduces our environmental impact but helps residents to get around safely and more effectively. 

 "Using AI technology allows us to analyse vast amounts of data and make the most out of transportation networks in ways that were previously unimaginable. 

"This will result in more sustainable travel, cleaner air, and a brighter future for Ealing." 

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