Tackling transport challenges the focus of new partnership

How we get around our cities and towns could be revolutionised through a new partnership between The University of Queensland and industry.

A Memorandum of Understanding with transport analytics company Veitch Lister Consulting (VLC) could provide new solutions to manage congestion and reduce transport emissions - allowing people to get home faster and breathe easier.

Transport Engineering Research Fellow Dr Jake Whitehead will work with VLC on transport projects and policies around future mobility solutions, including electric, shared and automated vehicles.

“It’s exciting to embark on this partnership,” Dr Whitehead said.

“VLC is known for its commitment to excellence and innovation in the transport sector and, by utilising their market-leading strategic transport models, together we’ll be able to assess the wider impacts of mobility solutions on the transport network.”

The partnership will allow UQ researchers and students to participate in collaborative projects, gaining valuable industry experience and working on mobility challenges in Australia.

VLC Chief Executive Officer Tim Veitch said he was looking forward to bringing UQ’s expertise on board to help combat transport challenges.

“We’re thrilled to expand our relationship with UQ through this partnership,” Mr Veitch said.

“There are numerous questions that will need answering over the next decade, and through this partnership we’ll be able to provide our clients with the expertise of leading transport researchers at UQ.”

UQ School of Civil Engineering head Professor Simon Washington said the agreement could lead to breakthroughs, solutions to significant civil engineering challenges, and future employment opportunities for students.

“This partnership is a shining example of the exciting industry engagement opportunities that UQ offers its talented teaching and research staff and students,” he said.

Projects already in the pipeline include work on electric vehicle policy and charging infrastructure planning.

Media: Dr Jake Whitehead, j.whitehead@uq.edu.au, +61 (0) 430 404 974; VLC Marketing and Communications Manager Andrea Archbold, Andrea.Archbold@veitchlister.com.au, +61 (0) 432 087 072; Paige Ashby, UQ Communications, p.ashby@uq.edu.au, +61 (0) 430 511 615.