Spanish infrastructure company Ferrovial has established an artificial intelligence (AI) hub and has plans to expand the use of AI in its toll road and airport businesses, including London's Heathrow Airport, according to the head of the hub. Ferrovial has been offering AI services to its businesses and employees since April, following two years of work on an AI solutions center in Spain. The company is aiming to significantly increase the deployment of AI technology by 2024. Ferrovial, which is known for constructing highways, airports, and metro lines, has moved its holding company to the Netherlands as part of its efforts to be listed in the United States, one of its key markets. The company is collaborating with Microsoft on AI products but has also developed its own private version and is establishing a framework for an AI service to support its various businesses. Currently, about 24, 000 Ferrovial employees have access to the company's proprietary AI service, which they can use anonymously for tasks such as email writing and translations. The AI hub has also developed a tool for Heathrow Airport that can predict how passenger traffic would be impacted by conflicts or natural disasters elsewhere.

Additionally, the tool can identify abnormalities like cracks in airport runways, making inspections more efficient. Ferrovial is also working on AI tools for its highways, which can detect incidents like wrong-way drivers and obstructions on the road. The company aims to improve these sensors as well. Furthermore, Ferrovial is working on ways to directly communicate with drivers on its US toll roads, providing them with more information beyond just toll prices. AI will also be used to contact potential users and offer them discounts, aiming to attract more traffic. In other news, online marketplace eBay's third-quarter profit is anticipated to be lower than market expectations due to increased spending in categories like auto parts, refurbished goods, and collectibles. As a result, eBay's shares dropped 4. 5% after the announcement.