U-M Mobility Transformation Center launches Affiliates Program

ANN ARBOR-U-M's Mobility Transformation Center-a major research partnership of industry, government and academia that is laying the foundation for a commercially viable system of connected and automated vehicles-has launched its Affiliates Program with 27 initial members from a wide range of industries. "Connected and automated vehicles hold the potential to dramatically improve the safety, sustainability and accessibility of our mobility system," said MTC Director Peter Sweatman. "Through this consortium arrangement, we seek to engage the range of cutting-edge technology suppliers, thought leaders and entrepreneurs required to inform and drive progress toward that transformative vision." The affiliates represent a broad range of sectors that will play a role in shaping a viable system of connected and automated vehicles, including automotive manufacturing, vehicle communication devices, chips and hardware, and insurance, as well as companies engaged in such technologies as advanced modeling, big data acquisition and intelligent transportation systems. "There are many interrelated technical, legal, social, economic, regulatory and urban planning challenges ahead," Sweatman said. "Working with a diverse group of partners in industry and departments across our campus, each of which brings its own expertise and perspectives to the table, is critical to our success." Affiliates commit a total of $150,000 each over three years in order to participate in selected MTC working groups and research programs, as well as key research reviews and an annual MTC Congress.