The National Institute of Technology (NIT) Rourkela has secured a patent for an artificial intelligence model designed to enhance road safety through vehicle-to-vehicle communication. The development marks a significant step forward in the use of AI for transportation innovation in India, with the potential to reduce accidents and improve overall traffic management.
The newly patented system leverages artificial intelligence algorithms to enable cars to communicate directly with each other, creating a connected vehicle ecosystem that enhances awareness on the road. By transmitting real-time data such as speed, braking status, and road conditions, the model allows vehicles to anticipate potential collisions and adjust accordingly.
According to researchers, the technology aims to address one of the leading causes of road accidents in India—lack of timely communication between vehicles. India accounts for nearly 11 percent of global road accident deaths, with over 150,000 fatalities reported annually. Experts believe that AI-driven vehicle communication could drastically reduce these numbers by preventing human errors and enabling faster decision-making.
The AI model works by embedding machine learning systems into onboard units that vehicles can install. These systems are designed to process real-time data and share insights with nearby vehicles through secure communication channels. For example, if one vehicle brakes suddenly, surrounding cars are alerted instantly, allowing them to react within milliseconds and avoid collisions.
Beyond accident prevention, the technology also supports smoother traffic flow. By sharing information such as congestion levels and lane changes, the AI model helps vehicles plan routes more efficiently. This capability could reduce traffic jams, cut down fuel consumption, and lower emissions—benefits that align with India’s broader sustainability goals.
Officials from NIT Rourkela highlighted the collaborative effort behind the innovation, involving faculty and research scholars across disciplines such as computer science, electrical engineering, and mechanical engineering. The project reflects India’s growing emphasis on applying AI in critical sectors beyond traditional IT services.
Patent recognition is expected to accelerate industry interest, with potential applications in commercial fleets, logistics companies, and public transportation. Automotive manufacturers and technology firms are likely to explore partnerships to test and deploy the technology in controlled environments before large-scale rollout.
Industry analysts note that this development comes at a crucial time as India prepares for the adoption of intelligent transportation systems. Government programs such as the National Road Safety Policy and initiatives by the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways are increasingly focused on integrating advanced technologies to meet ambitious safety and efficiency targets.
While autonomous vehicles remain a longer-term goal, the NIT Rourkela innovation represents an intermediate step by enabling smarter decision-making in human-driven cars. This approach is seen as more practical for the Indian market, where infrastructure challenges and regulatory frameworks limit the immediate deployment of fully autonomous solutions.
The patented model also aligns with global trends. Across Europe, the United States, and parts of Asia, vehicle-to-vehicle communication systems are being tested as part of broader intelligent mobility programs. India’s entry into this space reflects both its research capabilities and its urgent need for scalable road safety solutions.
Speaking about the breakthrough, NIT Rourkela representatives emphasized that the AI model is adaptable for different vehicle categories, including passenger cars, trucks, and buses. The scalability of the system could be particularly beneficial in India’s logistics sector, where heavy traffic and long-distance operations frequently increase accident risks.
The researchers also highlighted that data security and privacy were key considerations in the model’s design. Communication between vehicles is encrypted to ensure that sensitive information cannot be misused, addressing one of the major concerns associated with connected mobility technologies.
Experts believe that widespread adoption of the technology will depend on industry collaboration, infrastructure investment, and regulatory support. Retrofitting existing vehicles with the AI-powered system will be essential for large-scale impact, while newer models could integrate the technology natively.
The patent is expected to encourage further innovation in India’s academic and research institutions, setting an example of how AI can be applied to real-world challenges. By focusing on road safety, the NIT Rourkela team has demonstrated how technology can create social as well as economic impact, aligning with national priorities for both digital innovation and public safety.
As road networks in India continue to expand and urbanization accelerates, the need for intelligent solutions has become more pressing than ever. With this development, NIT Rourkela has positioned itself as a leader in applied AI research, contributing to the future of safer, smarter, and more connected transportation in the country.