Artificial intelligence is set to play a central role in transforming Britain’s road and rail network, with continued government investment in digital technology expected to improve reliability, reduce delays and support economic growth.

Speaking at the Transport AI Summit in Parliament on Tuesday, Ruth Cadbury MP, chair of the Transport Select Committee, said AI and data-led technologies would be critical to tackling long-standing issues such as potholes, congestion and train delays. The event, organised by Chamber UK, brought together MPs, transport operators and technology firms to discuss how automation and analytics could modernise national infrastructure.

Cadbury praised the government’s commitment to working with specialist technology providers to improve road maintenance and rail performance, arguing that faster and more reliable connectivity is essential for job creation and regional growth.

“Britain’s transport network underpins economic activity across the country,” she told delegates. “Using AI and digital tools more effectively can help us maintain roads better, run trains more reliably and ensure the network supports growth in the years ahead.”

Attendees were given a live demonstration of Robotiz3d, an autonomous system designed to detect, prevent and repair potholes using AI-powered scanning and robotics. Supporters say such technologies could significantly reduce the cost and disruption associated with reactive road repairs.

However, speakers also warned that increased reliance on AI must be matched with stronger cyber security protections.

Graeme Stewart, head of public sector at Check Point Software, said transport systems would become increasingly attractive targets for cybercriminals as they become more connected and data-driven.

“With AI set to play a major role in the future of the UK’s transport infrastructure, it’s vital that the right security safeguards are built in from the outset,” he said. “Hackers have already shown that no sector is off limits. Roads and railways are critical national infrastructure, and policymakers must ensure resilience is treated as a priority.”

Rail technology specialists also highlighted the economic benefits of a smarter transport system.

Daren Wood, chief technology officer at Resonate Group, said modernising transport through AI and real-time data would help unlock productivity gains across the economy.

“A fully optimised transport network supported by the latest digital capabilities is essential for future growth,” he said. “Roads and rail routes connect businesses, people and opportunities. Harnessing AI to improve journeys and reliability is the right direction of travel for the UK.”

The summit underscored growing cross-party and industry consensus that AI will play a defining role in the next phase of transport investment — provided it is deployed securely, strategically and at scale.

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AI set to ‘turbocharge’ Britain’s road and rail network, says Transport Select Committee chair