Welcome to the third 2026 issue of Proceedings of the Institution of Civil Engineers – Transport. On behalf of the editorial panel, I am pleased to introduce a collection of research that reflects the increasingly complex and multidisciplinary nature of the field. As global transport networks face the triple challenge of rapid urbanisation, environmental imperatives and public health security, the focus has shifted from providing physical connectivity to managing dynamic systems where technology, policy and human experience intersect.
Across this issue, diverse areas of expertise, ranging from behavioural psychology to epidemiological modelling and data science, converge to address the multi-faceted problems of modern mobility. From the microscopic control of automated vehicles to the macroscopic flow of urban populations, a consistent objective emerges: the development of transport systems that are efficient, resilient, inclusive and sustainable.
A central theme in this transition is the human factor. Technology alone cannot drive the shift toward low-carbon-dioxide mobility; it must be supported by an understanding of user perception. In this context, Wang et al. (2026) investigate the effects of low-carbon travel on subjective perceptions through an efficacy–expectancy confirmation framework. Their study reveals a crucial gap: while active modes like walking and cycling yield high satisfaction, public transportation often suffers from lower perceived quality. This highlights that promoting sustainable transport is as much a psychological challenge as it is a technical one, requiring strategies that enhance the emotional and cognitive experience of the traveller.
Complementing this focus on user behaviour is the need for sophisticated management of modern vehicle technologies. As we move toward a future of connected and autonomous vehicles (CAVs), managing the interface between automated systems and traditional infrastructure becomes paramount. Li et al. (2026) address the complexities of on-ramp merging scenarios for CAVs, incorporating fuzzy and uncertain factors into their control models. This research is vital for ensuring that autonomous systems can navigate the inherent unpredictability of real-world traffic environments safely and efficiently.
The transition to electrification also presents significant logistical challenges. Liu et al. (2026) utilise multi-source data to analyse electric vehicle users’ charging choice behaviour. By understanding the factors that influence where and when users charge their vehicles, this study provides essential insights for engineers and policymakers tasked with designing the charging infrastructure of the future. Similarly, in the realm of mass transit, efficiency must be balanced with operational intelligence. Song et al. (2026) propose research on the spatial patterns of passenger flow in rail transit based on fixed time intervals, offering a methodological approach to better understand and manage the high-density movements that characterise modern urban rail networks.
While mobility is a driver of economic growth, the Covid-19 pandemic highlighted that public transport can also act as a vector for crisis. Jia et al. (2026) provide a sobering and rigorous analysis of this dynamic by modelling the impact of urban bus transit on epidemic transmission. Using a modified SEIR (susceptible–exposed–infected–recovered) model (F-SEIR) and global positioning system data from Wuhan, they demonstrate how bus networks can accelerate disease spread through ‘fly dot’ clustering. Their findings suggest that early travel restrictions could have reduced infections by up to 28.3%, offering a critical framework for transport managers to optimise public transit operations during future health emergencies.
Finally, the safety of the most vulnerable road users remains a foundational priority for transport and mobility. Liu and Evdorides (2026) provide a comprehensive review of infrastructure measures for pedestrian safety at unsignalised crossings. As urban environments become more complex, synthesising best practices for pedestrian protection is essential for creating inclusive and safe transport systems for all.
In conclusion, the six papers in this issue demonstrate that the future of transport depends on integrating specialised knowledge into cohesive, system-wide strategies. The contributions highlight the importance of aligning technological innovation with the fundamental needs of society. Appreciation is extended to the authors for their high-quality work and to the reviewers for their careful and dedicated efforts. We hope that the insights presented here will support ongoing professional practice and research.
