In partnership with Michigan transportation and mobility leaders, PlanetM, part of the Michigan Economic Development Corp., today released a report entitled “Future Cities: Navigating the New Era of Mobility,” which highlights the potential benefits and challenges for communities as connected and autonomous vehicle technology emerges.
Gov. Rick Snyder unveiled the study at a press conference in Montreal, where he is leading a Michigan delegation at the Intelligent Transport Systems (ITS) World Congress.
The Future Cities study examines the potential challenges and benefits of connected and automated vehicle (CAV) technologies for large urban communities and small, rural regions. The technologies and services promise many benefits for Michigan residents, but often require new infrastructure or policies provided by local governments and municipalities to maximize societal benefits and overall effectiveness.
“Nowhere else on the planet has the capabilities to lead the world into the next generation of mobility efforts like Michigan does,” says Gov. Snyder. “With advanced manufacturing, technology, and research and development, Michigan is paving the way for future generations through vehicle to vehicle and vehicle to roadway connectivity.”
Snyder was joined by Michigan Department of Transportation director Kirk Steudle and one of the report’s authors, Adela Spulber, a transportation systems analyst from the Center for Automotive Research (CAR).
“Michigan is committed to embracing the future of mobility and understanding its societal impacts as connected and self-driving vehicle development evolves,” says Steudle. “To ensure Michigan remains a leader in the connected and automated vehicle revolution, we must arm our communities with the knowledge they need to develop a vision for tomorrow’s infrastructure, neighborhoods, and transportation systems.”
The study was commissioned by PlanetM in conjunction with the Michigan Economic Development Corp.’s automotive office and developed by CAR. Future Cities also lays out recommendations and next steps for communities to insure a successful implementation of civic systems that support CAV technology, as well as mobility services like car sharing and ride hauling.
A full version of the report can be found here.
