White Bear Lake Bear Tracks Shuttle Pilot
The MnCAV Ecosystem is partnering with the Minnesota Department of Transportation (MnDOT) and the City of White Bear Lake, Minnesota, on an automated shuttle project led by MnDOT’s connected and automated vehicle division. The Bear Tracks project is operating a low-speed, self-driving electric shuttle along a 1.5-mile route from August 2022 through July 2023. The service can carry up to 10 passengers, is wheelchair accessible, and free for all people to ride.
Among the project’s goals are to familiarize the public with CAV technology, gather lessons learned for CAV operations in all weather conditions, and provide innovative mobility options for persons with disabilities and seniors. The MnCAV Ecosystem will support related research and education activities during its run.
VSI Labs
The MnCAV Ecosystem is working with Minnesota-based VSI Labs toward a shared goal of establishing the MnCAV vehicle as a robust platform for research and demonstration. VSI Labs brings years of experience working with its own connected and automated vehicles along with technical expertise in CAV software, hardware, and connectivity technologies. VSI Labs will build on this experience to develop documentation and instructional materials, provide software, and integrate hardware to expand the functionality of the vehicle.
In August, VSI took part in Drive MN, during which a team of partners piloted two research CAVs (the MnCAV Ecosystem’s vehicle and a VSI Lab vehicle) to collect data about the state’s roadway infrastructure.
Grand Rapids goMARTI Shuttle Pilot
The MnCAV Ecosystem is partnering with the Minnesota Department of Transportation, May Mobility, The PLUM Catalyst, and many others on the goMARTI project, an 18-month self-driving shuttle pilot in Grand Rapids, MN. The project's goal is to increase accessibility and transportation options for residents and visitors.
During the pilot, MnCAV Ecosystem affiliated researchers Tom Fisher and Frank Douma will be conducting several research efforts. Fisher and his team will be exploring the potential for mobility hubs at shuttle stops. Douma will be evaluating community engagement efforts and documenting the innovations and collaborations that took place to enable the project's implementation.