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How slowing down traffic could make it faster

Creating intersections where there are no traffic lights and no stop signs for cars that communicate with each other.
Using mathematical modelling, MIT researchers have developed a system that would eliminate traffic lights. (MIT Senseable City Lab)

Researchers at MIT's Senseable City Lab think slot-based intersections that use a slower is faster approach could eliminate traffic lights and delays.

With this system, vehicles would talk to each other using high tech sensors to allow cars to remain at a safe distance from each other as they move through the intersection.

Using mathematical modelling, the MIT researchers have outlined how the system would work. Their results show that, theoretically, moving from traffic lights to a slot-based system could potentially double traffic capacity and significantly reduce delays.