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Ann Arbor SPARK Receives Grant To Create Connected Vehicle Development Center

By Edward Cardenas

ANN ARBOR (CBS Detroit) - Ann Arbor SPARK has been awarded a $247,170 federal grant to create a Connected Vehicle (CAV) Development Center at the former Willow Run plant in Ypsilanti Township.

The 2014 Regional Innovation Strategies Program Science and Research Park Development Grant from the U.S. Department of Commerce, Economic Development Administration will support the development of the CAV development center.

"The grant award will enable Ann Arbor SPARK to accelerate our efforts and work with a range of experts who can inform and shape the Willow Run plan," said Paul Krutko, president and CEO of Ann Arbor SPARK, in a release. "The infrastructure, talent, and rich heritage of automotive innovation is unique to this region, and makes it the only place in the world where such a center can thrive."

Regional business, academic, government and economic development partners will work with Ann Arbor SPARK to develop a plan for the CAV Development Center which, officials state, will be a connected vehicle accelerator for early stage mobility companies.

Ann Arbor SPARK will also work with Detroit-based Walbridge Development to complete the assessment of the market, site, infrastructure, and financial needs for the connected vehicle center.

"This funding is a tremendous opportunity to drive innovation and development of new technologies that will make vehicles safer by reducing the risk of accidents and help relieve traffic congestion," said U.S. Sen. Gary Peters, D-MI, in a release. "Along with promoting new research and development, the proposed Willow Run CAV Development Center will create new jobs and ensure that the cars and trucks of the future are being developed and manufactured right here in Michigan."

The planned CAV will be housed at the former Willow Run Powertrain plant in Ypsilanti Township, and will be a hub for research and development of connected and autonomous vehicle technologies in southeast Michigan, according to officials.

"Thanks to the hard work of Ann Arbor SPARK and community leaders, Southeast Michigan continues to be a hub for innovative automotive technologies," said Stabenow. "This state-of-the-art center will attract electronics and software companies, from startups to established businesses, looking for the right place to test their products. This investment is a critical piece of the Willow Run redevelopment plan and will spur job growth in the region."

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