Detroit Launches AV Shuttle Pilot Progam

The City of Detroit has launched “The Connect” autonomous vehicle (AV) shuttle pilot program. The free service, which loops from Corktown through downtown Detroit to the East Jefferson Riverfront, uses four all-electric, wheelchair-accessible Ford E-Transit shuttles. Riders can track shuttles in real-time and receive estimated times of arrival via the Liftango web platform.

The Connect program is a step toward achieving a new standard for sustainable urban mobility in Detroit. The project is a collaborative effort involving the City of Detroit, Bedrock, Michigan Central, and the State of Michigan’s Office of Future Mobility and Electrification (OFME). Perrone Robotics, Inc. was selected as the preferred partner operating the shuttle service.

Shuttles are manually operated to allow for operations acclimation, to analyze potential route adjustments, and verify the specific autonomous features needed for Detroit’s urban environment. Over time, additional capabilities and functionalities will be added, including full autonomous driving later this year. Throughout the duration of the pilot, a safety operator will remain behind the wheel at all times.

In addition to an initial $1.5 million in first-year funding from Michigan Central, Bedrock, and OFME, the City of Detroit has secured an additional $1.67 million from Michigan DOT. This new funding will be used to enhance the service by adding a fifth shuttle and extending the pilot by an additional year.