Next-Generation Multiple Access (NGMA) and Cell-Free Networks for Intelligent Transport Systems

Topic Information

Dear Colleagues,

The evolution towards 6G is heavily driven by the rigorous demands of Intelligent Transport Systems (ITSs), where autonomous vehicles and smart infrastructure require connectivity that is not just fast, but ultra-reliable and seamless. The integration of Next-Generation Multiple Access (NGMA) with cell-free massive MIMO networks represents a transformative solution to meet these needs, addressing the limitations of current cellular architectures. In traditional "cell-centric" networks, vehicles moving at high speeds face frequent handovers and signal degradation at cell edges. Cell-free massive MIMO solves this by removing cell boundaries entirely. Instead of connecting to a single base station, a vehicle is served simultaneously by a distributed cluster of Access Points (APs) that cooperate coherently. This creates a "user-centric" network that follows the vehicle, effectively eliminating dead zones and handover latency—critical factors for the safety of self-driving cars.

Complementing this architectural shift is NGMA, which maximizes the efficiency of the available spectrum. Techniques such as Non-Orthogonal Multiple Access (NOMA) and Rate-Splitting Multiple Access (RSMA) allow multiple users to share the same time and frequency resources by distinguishing signals in the power domain. In dense traffic scenarios where hundreds of sensors and vehicles compete for bandwidth, NGMA enables massive connectivity without the queuing delays associated with traditional orthogonal access.

The synergy of these technologies creates a robust framework for 6G ITS. While cell-free architectures ensure consistent signal quality regardless of location or speed, NGMA ensures that the network can handle the sheer volume of connections required. Together, they enable the high-throughput, low-latency communication necessary for real-time sensor fusion and cooperative driving.

Dr. I Nyoman Apraz Ramatryana
Prof. Dr. Soo Young Shin
Prof. Dr. Adel Ben Mnaouer
Topic Editors

Keywords

Participating Journals

Journal Name	Impact Factor	CiteScore	Launched Year	First Decision (median)	APC
Electronics electronics	2.9	7.0	2012	14.8 Days	CHF 2400	Submit
Future Transportation futuretransp	2.5	3.4	2021	14.6 Days	CHF 1200	Submit
Technologies technologies	5.2	6.7	2013	17 Days	CHF 1800	Submit
Vehicles vehicles	3.2	5.5	2019	19.7 Days	CHF 1800	Submit

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