Overview
Due to the fast development of the information and communication sector it is important to use these innovations on the transport sector in an appropriate way. New technologies are implemented to utilise the already existing transport resources more efficiently.
Principal aims of the I2 programme are:
- to increase R&D activities of Austrian companies up to the European average
- to foster Austrian companies on the international market of transport telematics
- to develop stable R&D networks for transport telematics and their applications
- to increase the offer in innovative and intelligent transport services
- to increase the part of non university research in the field of cooperative research activities
The whole programme is divided into different calls (each year one call). The first call last from 12/2002 to 03/2003, 50 projects participated and 25 projects were appointed for funding. The second call, with a budget of EUR 7 million, will start at the end of 2003.
The I2 programme comprises three main phases: fundamental research, feasibility studies and demonstration.
The fundamental idea of these phases is to divide large projects into three parts. Generally a project is able to be funded for all three phases. If one part is finished successfully the participant will get a bonus for getting funded in the following call.
The two programmes Take OV and Logistik Austria Plus, which finish in 2003, will be integrated into the I2 programme.
Funding
Funding is provided for projects, which focus on transport management, traffic - and travel information systems, transport safety, legal framework for the use of the intelligent infrastructure and education in the field of transport telematics in Austria.
Projects in the field of fundamental research will be funded by the Federal Ministry of Transport, Innovation and Technology with up to 100%. Feasibility studies and demonstrations will be financed by 25-50%. The implementation of the project will not be financed by the programme.
All scientific institutions, research agencies, transport companies, consulting companies, industrial enterprises, telecom and IT service providers and companies which have their industrial premises or their research institute in Austria are eligible for funding.