RoboSense, a leading innovator in LiDAR technology, recently announced its membership in Mcity, a public-private mobility research center led by the University of Michigan. As part of its membership, the company’s technology will be installed on a Ford Mustang Mach-E to expand the data collection capabilities inside the world-class Mcity Test Facility and on-road in the city of Ann Arbor. RoboSense will also provide experiential learning opportunities for students through U-M’s Perot Jain TechLab at Mcity, a start-up-in-residence program.

Michigan is accelerating its transition to clean and electric school bus fleets with the second-year allocation of funds from President Biden’s Bipartisan Infrastructure Law’s Clean School Bus Program (CSBP). The $5 billion program supports the purchase of over 65 clean school buses for Detroit, Lansing, and Pontiac public school systems, emphasizing a commitment to a greener and safer transportation future while reducing greenhouse gas emissions. The application deadline for this program has been extended to 4 p.m. ET on Feb. 14, 2024.

URBAN-X has opened applications for its accelerator program to support founders building businesses to solve cities’ toughest challenges in areas such as transportation and mobility, the built environment, food, waste and water, and the energy grid. The immersive 20-week program offers customer development, product development, network-building, and expert guidance for startups – all in preparation for fundraising. Applications to join the spring 2024 cohort close on Jan. 21.

The Capital One Impact Initiative has opened up applications for those in the mobility industry who have or are working on a minimum viable product (MVP) and are preparing for a capital infusion to scale their company. The program is virtual, and participants gain valuable insights, powerful connections, and opportunities for funding. Applications are open through Feb. 2.

2024

• Feb. 1-4: NADA Show 2024
• Feb. 23-March 3: Cleveland Auto Show
• March 8 – 16: SXSW
• March 12-14: SAE International AeroTech
• March 19-21: Automotive CyberSecurity Conference
• April 16-18: SAE International WCX
• May 21-22: 2024 Global Symposium on Mobility Innovation
• May 21-23: AutoSens USA
• June 3-4: Electric Vehicles Battery Technology USA
• June 26-28: Auto Ai

Ecosystem Spotlight: Justine Johnson, Chief Mobility Officer of the Office of Future Mobility and Electrification | Silicon Foundry

Justine Johnson, Chief Mobility Officer of the Michigan Office of Future Mobility and Electrification (OFME), brings over a decade of experience in economic development, mobility, and community relations. In an interview, she discusses her diverse background and how it informs her role in Michigan, highlighting the state’s leadership in the future of mobility.

What Are Self-Driving Cars? The Technology Explained | Forbes

In Michigan, autonomous vehicles, classified into six levels by the Society of Automotive Engineers, present potential benefits such as improved convenience, efficiency, and reduced traffic accidents. Despite growing consumer interest and increased investment in automated driving technologies, widespread adoption faces challenges including safety concerns, ethical considerations, and weather-related obstacles.

Michigan Projects Advancing EV and Battery Technology to Receive $9.5M | CBS News

Michigan will receive $9.5 million from the U.S. Department of Energy for three projects aimed at advancing EV and battery technology. The funding will support research and development efforts by Ricardo Inc., MAHLE Powertrain LLC, and the University of Michigan to enhance EV batteries and charging systems, with the goal of reducing costs and maintaining global leadership in the EV industry.

• DriveElectric.gov – Information on all federal EV-related news and opportunities
• DOE Bipartisan Infrastructure Funding Opportunities – The latest notices and RFP opportunities for programs related to clean energy and lower carbon emissions
• The Ford Launchpad for Innovative Technologies and Entrepreneurship (FLITE) – Provides grants and pilot-testing opportunities to companies focused on bringing emerging air travel technology solutions to market
• Global Epicenter of Mobility (GEM) – A consortium bed by the Detroit Regional Partnership that is designed to help build an inclusive and prosperous 21st-century mobility sector
• H2 Matchmaker – An online resource to help hydrogen suppliers and users identify stakeholders across the supply chain
• MICHauto – Organization that promotes, retains, and grows Michigan’s signature industry as the state’s only automotive and mobility cluster association. View the MICHauto Automobility Asset Map for a look at the 250 locations that are active contributors to the EV industry.
• Michigan Mobility Funding Platform – Test site deployments and real-world deployments
• Michigan EGLE: Charge Up Michigan – Opportunity to apply for funding
• Mobility Makers – Community of professionals dedicated to sustainable mobility
• Plug and Play Tech Center Detroit – Resources for startups looking to reach OEMs and Tier 1 Suppliers