New Connected Vehicle Proving Center Opens in Ann Arbor

State Government Leaders, Auto Industry Executives on Hand for Dedication of Test Center, Showcase

ANN ARBOR, Mich., Oct. 2 -- Michigan state government officials and executives from the transportation, manufacturing, automotive and telecommunications sectors were on hand for the dedication of the Connected Vehicle Proving Center (CVPC) in Ann Arbor today.

The CVPC, funded by the State of Michigan, has been created through a strategic alliance between the Center for Automotive Research (CAR) and the Connected Vehicle Trade Association (CVTA). The CVPC will be a proving ground for testing, evaluating, and showcasing connected vehicle systems. The Center will integrate connected vehicles, smart roadway infrastructure and a broad range of telecommunication technologies. In addition, the CVPC will provide expertise in evaluation design, data storage and analysis, and information sharing.

Once fully operational, the CVPC will serve as an incubator that offers an advanced test and evaluation environment the can be accessed by OEMs, automotive suppliers, transportation agencies, and communications companies. Ultimately, the Center will serve as a catalyst for growing the connected vehicle industry, thereby attracting related technical and engineering jobs to Michigan.

"Michigan's economic plan is all about building on our heritage to create cutting-edge jobs," said Michigan Governor Jennifer M. Granholm. "This project is an excellent example of how innovation can fuel economic growth in our state."

Over the years, Michigan has established itself as the world leader in the development of connected vehicles and electronic components. This development and expertise in the industry, coupled with Michigan being home to the U.S. automotive industry, made the state the logical site for the CVPC.

"We are extremely excited to be opening the Connected Vehicle Proving Center and better enabling our partner companies to advance the field of vehicle safety," said Steve Underwood, director of both the CVPC and CAR's Transportation and Information System Planning Group. "The facility will be a unique, international showcase, serving as the pinnacle of automotive advancement, demonstrating the capabilities of connected vehicle systems and their positive societal impact."

The CVPC is located at the Center for Automotive Research, 1000 Victors Way, Suite 200, Ann Arbor, Michigan, 48108. For more information, visit the Center's web site at www.cvpc.com.