Ford has contributed US$5m to the American Centre for Mobility (ACM) to support connected and automated vehicle (CAV) technology development.
The investment designates Ford as a founder-level sponsor and member of a government-industry team, which supports ACM to create its automated vehicle proving ground in South East Michigan where companies will develop CAV technologies, as well as work on standards and education programmes.
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The contribution from Ford brings ACM's fundraising total to US$95m to develop the 500-acre test site at Willow Run in Ypsilanti Township. The non-profit testing and validation, product development and education facility will open its first phase in December this year.
"When we first announced our plan to develop the American Centre for Mobility, it may have seemed a little ambitious to some," said ACM president and CEO John Maddox. "However, we're well along in making this a reality as national and global partners continue to support the facility."
For his part, Michigan governor, Rick Snyder, added: "Ford's investment in the American Centre for Mobility shows their faith in Michigan as the world leader in mobility and once again proves the company's commitment to our State and everyone who calls it home."
"As the convergence between the technological and manufacturing sectors continues to grow, it is very encouraging to see Michigan companies like Ford leading the way toward our future."
Ford joins other ACM Founders Toyota Motor North America (TMNA) and the Toyota Research Institute (TRI), and AT&T, which announced their support of ACM earlier this year.
