New hi-tech survey vehicle will collect road condition data faster than ever before.

United Kingdom – A new hi-tech survey vehicle that will procure information on the condition of England’s roads 30 times faster than before has been unveiled by roads minister Stephen Ladyman.

The 50mph speed of the new Traffic Speed Deflectometer means that there will be fewer delays for drivers behind the survey vehicle, while new technology ensures that the high quality of the data is retained.

The information collected will be used in conjunction with data from other surveys to help the Highways Agency identify areas that need maintenance the most.

All of England’s 4,500 miles of motorways and major A roads are surveyed at least once a year.

"Projects such as this demonstrate the government’s forward looking approach to using new technology," said Mr Ladyman.

"The new equipment will be used to target resources as effectively as possible, ensuring road users continue to benefit from safe road surfaces, without unnecessary delays to drivers while this vital work is carried out."

The minister also saw other innovative technologies during his visit to the Transport Research Laboratory (TRL), including a simulator that uses 3D laser scanned models of road scenes so investigators can replicate accident sites and drive through them under different lighting and weather conditions.

A truck simulator is also run by the TRL to help train HGV drivers in safe and fuel-efficient driving.