Photo: Josh Garcia
The City of Detroit Office of Mobility Innovation is launching a new shuttle pilot program to test how efficient self-driving technology is in helping residents facing mobility barriers.
The Detroit Automated Driving Systems (ADS) Shuttle program will utilise self-driving vehicle technology to get residents aged 65 and older or living with disabilities from their home to their destinations, at no cost to the rider.
The Office of Mobility Innovation has been voted to receive a $2.4 million contract with May Mobility to provide the shuttle service, which is expected to be operational by fall 2024.
Mayor Duggan said:
“As mobility technology advances, it’s important we use it to make sure our most vulnerable residents can more easily access the services and amenities that are vital to their quality of life.
“Detroit always has been a global leader in transportation innovation. It’s the perfect city to develop this pilot project.”
The city received grant funding through the United States Department of Transportation Automated Driving System Demonstration Grant and philanthropic partners, Knight Foundation and Delta Dental Foundation.
The pilot project is being led by the Michigan Mobility Collaborative (MMC), a public-private partnership developed to support a mission of developing mobility solutions for older adults and people with disabilities.
The MMC is currently in the process of designing a self-driving shuttle service that can be scheduled in advance and have on-demand capabilities. Riders will have the options available to pre-book roundtrip rides through a mobile app, website or reach out to a call centre to book trips with a live representative.
In addition, the ADS shuttle will be available to Detroiters who possibly cannot take advantage of traditional paratransit services because they do not meet paratransit eligibility requirements.
