Significant government effort is directed towards transport, stimulated by the economic and social impact of worsening congestion. The UK ten-year transport plan anticipates £64.7bn public and £56.3bn private investment in urban and regional transport infrastructure by 2010. Targets have been set for reductions in congestion; road widening of 380 miles of the strategic road network; 80 trunk road schemes; 100 new bypasses; 130 major road improvement schemes; noise reduction; maintenance of roads, bridges and lighting; improved information, booking and ticketing systems; 40% reduction in deaths/serious injuries; accelerated take-up of cleaner vehicles. Bus, tram and light railway solutions are planned for urban and regional development.

The need to use energy efficiently and reduce pollution, greenhouse gases and waste is reflected in international agreements, European legislation and UK policy. Clear targets are specified for improved fuel efficiency and the total level of CO2 and other greenhouse gases produced as a by-product.

End-of-life vehicles account for 1% of Europe’s waste, with the UK producing 1.8 million tonnes each year. Reduced availability of landfill sites, together with taxation and European End-of-Life legislation may eventually lead to new forms of vehicle design, manufacture and ownership. By 2015 it is expected that 95% of vehicles will be recyclable, with only 5% destined for landfill (currently vehicles have one of the highest recycling rates - more than 75%).

The desire to reduce road deaths and serious injuries is emphasised in the UK ten-year transport plan. Targets of 40% reductions in deaths and serious injuries, and 50% fewer children killed or seriously injured have been set for 2010. This needs improvements to infrastructure and vehicles, required by UK, European and Industry agreements and standards and regulations. In addition there are European and UK targets for reductions in emissions, particulates and pollutants.

UK and European political systems and processes underpin the delivery of an efficient and effective road transport system, which requires a partnership between the private and public sectors. The long-term capital investment associated with infrastructure requires stable and integrated policies, while environmental targets require a willingness to develop and abide by international agreements. Issues of particular importance in Europe include the liberalisation of markets (for example, freight by 2008) and harmonisation of legislation and standards.

Significant efforts are needed to ensure that the physical road transport infrastructure is maintained in good condition, and extended to accommodate future demand (which may double by 2020). The UK ten-year plan includes substantial improvements to the urban and regional road transport infrastructure. New road surfaces are being developed to reduce noise and wear, with the long-term
possibility of installing equipment to support road trains (vehicle platooning).

Rapid improvements in communications bandwidth and computer processing power provide opportunities to improve the overall road transport system performance, in terms of traffic management, reduced congestion, information services, improved safety and security. The development of appropriate technical standards for use in the global market is important, particularly when combined with new vehicle developments. The development of vehicle and infrastructure systems needs to be co-ordinated.

If alternative energy and power systems are to be developed and deployed widely in vehicles, then appropriate fuel distribution networks will need to be established. It is probable that a number of competing energy and power systems will be developed, starting with LPG and battery/hybrid powered vehicles. However it is likely to be at least 15 years or more before alternative energy sources such as hydrogen and bio-fuels will be widely available.

The effectiveness of the overall transport system demands that the links between the road and other transport modes be considered. Inter-modal transport requires synchronisation of timetables, integrated ticketing systems, together with accurate and up-to-date information services for both passenger and freight.