Smart City Van Research

Ford Motor Company is developing and testing smart infrastructure technology at complex intersections across the country. Due to obstructed views, these intersections present challenges for vehicles and drivers to foresee what is coming towards them.

The smart infrastructure technology has been developed to help “see” what might enter the intersection whether that is another car approaching at a fast speed, a pedestrian, bicyclist or scooter rider. This type of testing will work to help make our streets safer so that information can be relayed between vehicles and infrastructure such as traffic lights.

Ford has worked closely with state and local officials to identify intersections where testing would be beneficial and to allow the research vehicles to park nearby without impeding traffic flow to test this new technology. The Ford Transit vehicles being used in this study are clearly marked and have an 18-foot pole, with a camera at the top, attached to the roof.

Our goal is to improve safety and mobility in cities and towns, whether that is creating smart infrastructure or smarter vehicles. We are focused on safety in everything we do and this research is a part of that.

If you have any questions or concerns please reach out to smartvan@ford.com.

FAQ:

What is Ford testing at intersections? I have seen Ford Transit vans with tall poles on top.

Ford is testing smart infrastructure technology which could help vehicles in the future see what is happening ahead before they even arrive at the intersection.

Why is Ford conducting this research?

Our goal is to create the safest roads possible, whether that is creating smart infrastructure or smarter vehicles, and this research is a part of this. We are focused on safety in everything we do.

Why do you need such a tall structure?

Having the camera mounted to an extended pole on the Ford Transit allows us to reach the same height as a traffic light - and by placing it on a vehicle we become mobile. We can easily move the camera between intersections versus just having it on one traffic light or intersection, so that we can test a variety of areas and conditions.

Where is Ford testing?

We will start testing in Southeast Michigan and plan to expand our testing in a variety of locations around the country, including in Miami. 

Is Ford capturing my personal information?

No. We do not capture any personally identifiable information from anyone who is passing through the testing area. All data collected is to understand movement and test our vehicle’s capabilities to see what is coming towards the intersection.