Audi has announced the launch of its new Traffic Light Information (TLI) system, which is expected to go live in Las Vegas this month, making it the first city to activate a vehicle-to-infrastructure (V2I) system on public roads.

According to Auto Blog, the TLI system transmits information from traffic lights to servers operated by Audi partner Traffic Technology Services. The information is then sent to compatible Audi cars over a 4G LTE connection. This allows drivers to see how long it will take the red light ahead to turn green.

This information could be further used in the future to allow engine start-stop systems to shut off sooner when approaching red lights and start up immediately when the light turns green, thus making the engine more long-lasting and reducing fuel consumption. The information could also be sent back to municipalities, giving them a more accurate picture of traffic flow. In the words of Audi's general manager for connected vehicles, Pom Malhotra: "the information could be used with vehicle navigation, engine start/stop functionality and can even be used to help improve traffic flow."

The feature is currently available only on the Audi A4, A4 Allroad, and Q7 models built after June 1, 2016, and requires a subscription to Audi's streaming service. Audi said out that a V2I infrastructure opens up the possibility of providing navigation directions that take traffic lights into account. Cars could even coach drivers on how fast to go to hit more green lights. The technology could also be used in future to manage traffic so precisely that traffic signals may no longer be needed. The navigation technology would help autonomous vehicles make smarter route decisions as well.

Audi plans to bring the V2I technology to Washington soon after launching it in Las Vegas. These are the only two cities confirmed so far, although Audi says it is working to expand the service to other places.