Gov. Gretchen Whitmer of Michigan launched a challenge for innovators at this week’s Mackinac Policy Conference, pledging to display the most innovative smart infrastructure initiatives and technology at the 2020 North American International Auto Show (NAIAS).
The NAIAS 2020 Michigan Mobility Challenge seeks innovation in the world of automation and connected vehicle technology. Solutions for travel between Cobo Center and various destinations are being sought in the form of a mobile app.
“The world will be watching NAIAS 2020, and there is no better time to come together and show Michigan’s innovation and real-world deployment of new transportation technologies that will advance our state’s technology and automotive landscape,” Whitmer said. “That commitment to maintaining our edge in mobility, while improving the lives and safety of Michigan residents and visitors is why it is so critical we get to work to fix, and fund, the roads, and infrastructure across the state.”
The challenge is led by the Michigan Department of Transportation (MDOT) and the Michigan Economic Development Corporation’s (MEDC) mobility initiative, PlanetM, in collaboration with local stakeholders, industry, and academic partners.
“It is critical that we not only build on our heritage as a leader in manufacturing but that we also continue to position Michigan as a leader in high-tech industries and as a place where big ideas in mobility are born, developed and deployed,” Jeff Mason, CEO of the MEDC, said. “The 2020 NAIAS Michigan Mobility Challenge builds on a century of automotive ingenuity and technical know-how that sets Michigan apart as a global leader in the industry.”