As traffic volumes increase and cities seek safer, more responsive transportation networks, Vehicle-to-Everything (V2X) technology is emerging as a foundational tool for real-time communication on the road. These systems enable vehicles to connect with roadside infrastructure, pedestrians, and each other, enhancing safety, reducing congestion, and supporting smarter mobility.
For transportation agencies across the U.S., the path to deploying V2X infrastructure involves navigating evolving national standards and selecting technologies that ensure long-term interoperability.
The Two Core V2X Communication Protocols
Agencies exploring V2X systems must weigh two main communication protocols:
- Dedicated Short-Range Communications (DSRC): A Wi-Fi-based protocol that enables low-latency, direct communication between vehicles and infrastructure. DSRC has been tested for over two decades and offers reliable short-range connectivity.
- Cellular Vehicle-to-Everything (C-V2X): Built on existing 4G LTE and 5G networks, C-V2X supports broader communication types and longer range. Its potential to integrate with autonomous systems and support complex roadway environments makes it a key focus for future applications.
While both protocols serve similar purposes, the differences in deployment, maintenance needs, and future adaptability require careful evaluation.
V2X Standards in the United States: A Shifting Landscape
In the U.S., the Federal Communications Commission originally allocated the 5.9 GHz spectrum for V2X applications. However, a portion of that bandwidth has since been reallocated for unlicensed use, creating uncertainty about DSRC’s long-term role. As a result, interest in C-V2X deployment is growing, particularly due to its scalability and ability to integrate with modern cellular networks.
Unlike some countries that have adopted unified V2X frameworks, the U.S. transportation sector must navigate a more fragmented standards environment. This has prompted many state DOTs and local agencies to emphasize interoperability, flexibility, and investment in adaptable infrastructure.
How C-V2X Fits into Existing Traffic Systems
C-V2X technology integrates with modern traffic operations in several key ways:
- Vehicle-to-Vehicle (V2V): Helps reduce collisions by allowing vehicles to share position, speed, and hazard alerts.
- Vehicle-to-Infrastructure (V2I): Enables communication with signalized intersections for real-time signal coordination and traffic optimization.
- Vehicle-to-Pedestrian (V2P): Supports improved safety at crosswalks and mid-block pedestrian zones using connected mobile devices or roadside units.
Its low-latency design supports time-critical applications such as emergency vehicle preemption, queue warnings, and vulnerable road user alerts, making it a valuable asset in connected corridor planning.
The Benefits for Agencies and Communities
Deploying V2X technology, especially C-V2X, offers a range of operational and public benefits:
- Improved roadway safety through real-time situational awareness and coordinated driving behaviors.
- Reduced congestion with dynamic traffic signal timing and connected eco-driving strategies.
- Faster emergency response is enabled by preemptive signal control.
- Increased pedestrian safety using crosswalk-based alerts and automated driver notifications.
- Smarter traffic management by leveraging live data from connected vehicles to improve flow and planning.
Interoperability: Preparing for What’s Next
As V2X technology continues to evolve, interoperability between DSRC and C-V2X will be crucial for widespread adoption. Some manufacturers are developing dual-mode solutions that support both protocols, ensuring vehicles can communicate regardless of the underlying infrastructure. For example, the DENSO Dual-Mode DSRC & C-V2X On-Board Unit (OBU) offers seamless connectivity across both standards, enabling agencies to future-proof their investments.
Efforts led by standards bodies such as IEEE and the 5G Automotive Association continue to focus on aligning protocols, certifications, and deployment guidelines. These frameworks help agencies invest in solutions that are adaptable and compatible with broader regional or national systems.
Certified for Safety, Security, and Reliability
As part of ongoing efforts to support secure and interoperable connected infrastructure, Yunex Traffic’s V2X equipment has received OmniAir Certification—a third-party validation that devices meet rigorous industry standards for performance, communication, and cybersecurity.
The OmniAir Consortium® Certification Program assesses the conformance, interoperability, and security of V2X technologies based on standards from IEEE, SAE, and other transportation authorities. Devices undergo extensive testing to ensure they:
- Accurately transmit and receive over-the-air messages
- Maintain reliable connectivity in dynamic environments
- Follow strict security protocols to protect critical infrastructure
Certified devices carry the OmniAir mark, indicating they are ready to function within intelligent transportation systems. For agencies and transportation planners, this provides assurance that infrastructure investments are built on a foundation of trusted, standards-based communication, supporting safer and more efficient roadway operations.
On-the-Ground V2X Projects
Western Systems is actively involved in C-V2X deployments across key locations:
- Coachella Valley Associated Governments (CVAG): Delivering traveler messages and origin-destination data at over 400 locations.
- Caltrans HQ Palo Alto: Piloting connected infrastructure at 20+ test locations.
- Caltrans Districts 11 & 12: Implementing safety applications such as queue warning, wrong-way driving alerts, and pedestrian protection systems at more than 200 sites.
These deployments demonstrate the real-world potential of C-V2X integration and provide valuable insights for broader implementation across urban and rural corridors.
Planning for Future-Ready Infrastructure
Western Systems is committed to providing cutting-edge V2X solutions that enhance traffic safety, efficiency, and connectivity. By partnering with industry leaders like Yunex Traffic and DENSO, Western Systems offers advanced V2X infrastructure solutions that align with evolving standards. Explore our Yunex Traffic ITS solutions to learn how we are helping agencies and municipalities implement smart transportation systems.
Whether agencies are considering DSRC, C-V2X, or a combination of both, Western Systems has the expertise and solutions to support seamless V2X deployment. Contact us today to discuss how we can help implement a future-ready traffic management system that meets the latest V2X standards.