On Thursday, the U.S. Department of Transportation’s Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) said it was accepting applications for $40 million in grants to support connected vehicle technologies.
The grants, part of the Saving Lives with Connectivity: Accelerating V2X Deployment program, will fund the deployment of V2X technologies with the goal of advancing the full lifesaving potential of V2X communication, while ensuring connected technologies communication securely and without harmful interference. The V2X Deployment program focuses on road safety, mobility and efficiency through technology and can contribute to the DOT’s Safe System Approach to the National Roadway Safety Strategy launched in 2022 to address roadway fatalities.
“We can and must use all the tools at our disposal to reduce the devastating loss of life on our nation’s roadways, and technology has a big role to play in that effort,” U.S. Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg said. “Connected vehicle technology has the potential to save lives, and we are proud to provide this funding to help accelerate its development.”
Officials said the program will consider multiple technological, economic and policy strategies in charting the path towards nationwide interoperable connectivity. The goal, the FHWA said, is to assess the risks, challenges and uncertainties within V2X and facilitate initial deployments reach national interoperable connectivity.
“V2X connectivity is a critical transformational technology that not only advances safety but also enhances mobility and efficiency,” Federal Highway Administrator Shailen Bhatt said. “Accelerating V2X deployment now is a crucial step toward saving lives with connectivity. We’re working to make sure that no matter where you drive — truly reliable and seamless connectivity will be in place.”