The Infrastructure Automotive Technology Laboratory (iATL) in the US has welcomed Audi of America and ITS America into its partner alliance to develop connected vehicle applications.
The iATL opened in Suwanee, Georgia, last January and has adapted during the Covid-19 pandemic by turning part of the lab into a television studio where partners can develop activities virtually.
Brad Stertz, Audi director, government affairs, says: “With iATL partner organisations, we are able to introduce cellular Vehicle to Everything (C-V2X) technologies that alert drivers when they’re approaching school zones or buses, protecting children."
"In the future, when C-V2X becomes available to the public it will provide an immediate benefit to vulnerable road users.”
ITS America CEO Shailen Bhatt says: “The development and deployment of connected vehicle technology is the best tool in our toolbox to save lives on US roads.”
The iATL says the 4,400 square foot facility includes dozens of different types of electronic devices that control traffic signals, school zone safety beacons and electronic pedestrian crossings.
Automakers and others can develop interactive safety apps that engage with the devices in the lab and on roadways within a five-mile radius outfitted with connected infrastructure, the iATL adds.
During 2020, the lab announced several connected vehicle applications and products, including a virtual transit bus priority (Georgia and Massachusetts), bicycle detection and peloton priority for traffic signals (California) and remote advanced smart traffic corridor compatibility (Hawaii).
Bryan Mulligan, executive director at iATL, says: “The impressive list of accomplishments at the iATL in 2020 in spite of the pandemic shows what a talented group of people can do when given the opportunity in the right environment, be it in-person or virtual."
"The year 2021 promises to bring even more exciting innovations and partnerships.”
Other members of the partner alliance include the city of Alpharetta, AT&T and Traffic Control Corporation.
