Ford pledges $5 million to support American Center for Mobility

Ford Motor Company announced a $5 million contribution to the American Center for Mobility (ACM) to support connected and automated vehicle (CAV) technology development.

This investment designates Ford as a Founder-level sponsor and member of a government-industry team that supports ACM to create its automated vehicle proving ground in Southeast Michigan where companies will develop their CAV technologies, as well as work on standards and education programs.

The contribution from Ford brings ACM's fundraising total to $95 million to develop the 500-acre state-of-the-art testing 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 2017.

"We couldn't be more proud to have Ford Motor Company join the ranks as a Founder. When we first announced our plan to develop the American Center for Mobility, it may have seemed a little ambitious to some," said John Maddox, president and CEO of ACM. "However, we're well along in making this a reality as national and global partners continue to support the facility."

"We are proud to partner with ACM to help ensure Michigan continues as a hub for automotive innovation. The work done at Willow Run will help drive mobility solutions across the globe," said Ken Washington, Vice President, Research and Advanced Engineering and Chief Technology Officer, Ford Motor Company. "This is an investment in the safe, rapid testing and deployment of transformative technology that will help improve peoples' lives."

"Ford's investment in the American Center 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," Gov. Rick Snyder said. "As the convergence between the technological and manufacturing sectors continues to grow, it is very encouraging to see great Michigan companies like Ford leading the way toward our future."

"This collaboration will help the American Center for Mobility secure Michigan's future as a leader in autonomous and connected vehicles," said U.S. Senator Debbie Stabenow. "As we look ahead to the future of the industry that built the American middle class, today's announcement is another example of the big things Michigan can achieve when we work together."

"Self-driving vehicles will completely revolutionize the way we get around in the future, and it's essential for automakers, suppliers and other stakeholders to be able to work collaboratively to ensure these technologies are ready for our roads," said U.S. Senator Gary Peters. "I'm pleased that Ford will be investing in the American Center for Mobility to help ensure that Michigan and the United States remain at the center of development of these advanced, life-saving technologies."

"Ford's significant investment in the American Center for Mobility is welcome news for our state, and exemplifies the company's commitment to staying at the forefront of innovation and technology in the world," said U.S. Rep. Debbie Dingell. "Ford's roots run deep in Michigan's 12th District, and this investment reaffirms their support for our state, our workers and the future of mobility. We thank them for their dedication."

Ford joins other ACM Founders Toyota Motor North America (TMNA) and the Toyota Research Institute (TRI), and AT&T, who announced their support of ACM earlier this year.