Key highlights
- Hyundai TQI launched across Delhi, Mumbai, Bengaluru, Chennai, Hyderabad, Pune and Kolkata
- Traffic conditions rated from 1 to 10 using a simple colour-coded system
- Live updates will be broadcast through Radio Mirchi without requiring commuters to use their phones
Hyundai Motor India has come up with a rather interesting way of tackling one of the most frustrating parts of urban driving, figuring out just how bad the traffic actually is.
The company, in partnership with Radio Mirchi, has launched the Hyundai Traffic Quality Index (TQI). The new system converts complicated, constantly changing traffic information into a simple rating from 1 to 10, much like the way the Air Quality Index makes pollution easier to understand.
The system is currently available across Delhi, Mumbai, Bengaluru, Chennai, Hyderabad, Pune and Kolkata.
Traffic gets a colour code
The idea behind TQI is deliberately simple. A rating of 1 to 3 means Green Light Traffic, indicating relatively easy movement. Ratings from 4 to 7 are classified as Yellow Moderate Traffic, while 8 to 10 means Red Heavy Traffic.
Instead of having to interpret multiple traffic maps, road closures and diversion notices, commuters can use the rating to get a quick sense of what they are heading into. Hyundai says this can help motorists decide when to leave, identify congestion hotspots and consider alternative routes before setting off.
TQI combines real-time traffic data, Radio Mirchi’s on-ground intelligence and official traffic authority updates. It also considers road closures, diversions, planned civic work and special movement alerts. The resulting traffic updates are then broadcast through Radio Mirchi’s programming network.
Could TQI become the AQI for traffic?
The company wants TQI to eventually become a daily utility that people check before travelling, much like weather forecasts or AQI.
There could also be benefits beyond simply saving commuters a few minutes. Traffic authorities involved in the initiative believe the data and citizen inputs could help them better understand congestion patterns and plan future traffic management and infrastructure projects.
Also read: Spied: MG Hector Tomahawk EV undisguised, launch on August 26
