The Ray is to collaborate in facilitating and building projects in Texas, including connected and autonomous vehicle infrastructure and in-road dynamic wireless electric vehicle (EV) charging.
The Ray, a proving ground for transport technology on 18 miles of West Georgia’s I-85, has signed new agreements with the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDoT) Austin District, Central Texas Regional Mobility Authority and the City of Austin.
Jeff Dailey, deputy executive director of the Mobility Authority, says it is looking for opportunities to improve traffic flow and reduce crashes using connected vehicle technology and artificial intelligence.
“We also want to reduce vehicle emissions by deploying roadway infrastructure and technologies to support innovative vehicle propulsion systems,” Dailey continues.
“The best way to do this is through partnerships and collaboration such as this agreement with The Ray.”
The Ray says it will open up additional opportunities to collaborate between public and private sectors by acting as a bridge to accelerate project delivery and utilise funding mechanisms.
“In Georgia, The Ray has partnered with state and industry leaders to create the world’s first sustainable highway living laboratory, and we are excited to bring our experience in transportation innovation to Central Texas,” said Laura Rogers, director of strategic partnerships at The Ray.
“Focusing on infrastructure that supports future-forward transportation technology through regional collaboration allows for a seamless transition of service across jurisdictions and provides a model to scale similar initiatives across the state and nation.”
It will work with technology companies to bring industries together to create benefits such as cleaner air.
TxDoT Austin district engineer Tucker Ferguson says: "The community expects government entities like TxDoT, the city of Austin and the Mobility Authority to use new technology and innovative strategies to enhance mobility, protect the environment, improve quality of life and increase economic opportunity."
"The partnership with The Ray is a great opportunity to bring additional expertise and experience to our work.”
The Ray’s involvement EVs has also extended to a collaboration with Peachtree Corners in Georgia.
Last December, the city unveiled a solar-powered EV charging station at city hall.
