SHERIDAN, WYOMING – July 2, 2024 – In a groundbreaking move towards a more inclusive and accessible future,May Mobility, a pioneer in autonomous vehicle technology, has launched its "Accessibili-D" pilot program in Detroit.This ambitious project is a collaborative effort between May Mobility, the City of Detroit's Office of Mobility Innovation (OMI), and the Michigan Mobility Collaborative (MMC). The program aims to significantly enhance transportation options for Detroit residents aged 62 and older, as well as those with disabilities.
Accessibili-D, which kicked off its operations on June 20, 2024, deploys a fleet of three cutting-edge autonomous vehicles, two of which are specifically designed to accommodate wheelchair users. These specially equipped vehicles are poised to revolutionize the way individuals with mobility challenges navigate the city, empowering them to independently access essential services and participate fully in community life.
Empowering Residents Through Enhanced Mobility
The pilot program's extensive reach covers a sprawling 11-square-mile area in downtown Detroit, encompassing 68 strategically placed stops. This comprehensive coverage ensures that residents can conveniently reach vital destinations such as healthcare facilities, shopping centers, workplaces, and social gathering spots. The service operates on a user-friendly schedule, running Monday and Wednesday through Friday from 8 am to 6 pm, and on weekends from 8 am to 1 pm, offering flexibility and convenience to its users.
May Mobility's commitment to inclusivity shines through in the enrollment process. Interested individuals can easily express their interest by submitting a form, and the company will proactively reach out to guide them through the enrollment process. Once enrolled, booking rides is a seamless experience, thanks to the intuitive Accessibili-D app powered by Via, or through a dedicated phone line.
Community-Centric Approach to Autonomous Transportation
The inception of Accessibili-D was made possible by a substantial $2.4 million contract approved by the Detroit City Council in July 2023. Recognizing the importance of community involvement, May Mobility and MMC have actively engaged with potential riders through comprehensive outreach programs. These initiatives aim to educate the community about the benefits and safety of AVs, gather feedback, and identify crucial locations in downtown Detroit where the service can make the most significant impact.
To ensure the utmost safety of its passengers, May Mobility has conducted extensive testing of its autonomous vehicles in partnership with esteemed institutions like the University of Michigan's Mcity and the American Center for Mobility (ACM). These rigorous tests, simulating real-world urban scenarios, have been instrumental in refining the technology and ensuring that the AVs are prepared to navigate Detroit's streets safely and efficiently.
Technological Innovation Driving Accessibility
May Mobility's AVs are equipped with advanced multi-policy decision-making (MPDM) technology, which leverages a combination of lidar, radar, and cameras to create a comprehensive 360° view of the environment. This sophisticated technology allows the vehicles to process vast amounts of data in real-time, simulating thousands of potential scenarios per second to make informed decisions for safe and optimal navigation.
With the launch of Accessibili-D, Detroit joins a growing list of cities embracing the potential of autonomous technology to revolutionize transportation. This pilot program is a testament to the power of collaboration between technology companies, government agencies, and community organizations in creating a more accessible and equitable future for all. As May Mobility continues to expand its operations across the United States, it remains committed to its mission of transforming urban mobility through innovation and inclusivity.