The American Center for Mobility held its annual Demo Day on April 28, drawing nearly 100 industry guests to observe new developments in electric vehicles, roadway infrastructure, advanced driver-assistance systems testing, and autonomous vehicle activity.
Demo Day is significant as it provides a firsthand look at the ongoing innovation pipeline within Michigan’s mobility sector. The event aims to keep next-generation mobility innovation centered in Michigan and build on the state’s legacy as a transportation leader.
During the event, companies based at ACM showcased their work. Motmot demonstrated underwater robotics technology intended to help municipalities detect and repair aging water infrastructure before major breaks occur. Drivesec presented its cybersecurity solutions designed to protect software in autonomous and electric vehicles. Retrospect provided attendees with a demonstration of its self-driving bus, while Michigan Technological University (MTU) highlighted adaptive beam lighting and work-zone occupant detection technologies within ACM’s tunnel simulation. MTU also demonstrated guided soft target testing using an AB Dynamics Soft Motorcycle 360 target for realistic validation of advanced driver-assistance systems and autonomous vehicles.
Ashley Edwards represented Finland-based Kempower by traveling from North Carolina to showcase the company’s DC Fast Charger with dynamic power management capabilities. Other exhibitors included a2Tech360 powered by Ann Arbor SPARK, 4activeSystems, Deepview Corp., GeneSys Elektronic, New Eagle, SAE Industry Technologies Consortia, Snowbotix, SWIFT ACT, Technical Professionals Group (TPG), and VicOne.
Ann Arbor SPARK has played an ongoing role in supporting ACM since its inception by identifying Willow Run as an adaptive reuse opportunity after plant demolition and assisting with early financing efforts. The organization continues to support ACM through board leadership and strategic partnerships such as a2Tech360 that connect startups with industry leaders.
