Accessibili-D Self-Driving Shuttle Pilot

What is the Accessibili-D (Detroit ADS) Project?

An Opportunity for an Innovative Solution

Older adults and people with disabilities (PwD) in Detroit face significant challenges when it comes to transportation, limiting their access to essential services and independence. The Accessibili-D project is designed to address this gap by providing an Autonomous Driving System (ADS) shuttle service that helps Detroit residents reach critical locations such as doctor’s appointments, grocery stores, and more. There is no cost to riders to participate!

This pilot solution is proudly crafted for Detroiters, by Detroiters, with a focus on improving mobility options for the city’s underserved communities.

What is an Autonomous Driving System (ADS)?

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), an Automated Driving System (ADS) is technology that allows a vehicle to drive itself without human intervention. This includes the vehicle's ability to handle critical functions like steering, acceleration, and braking. ADS technology enables vehicles to navigate complex road environments, offering safer and more efficient transportation solutions.

For more information on ADS, you can explore additional details through the NHTSA’s website. Also, to learn more about the ADS grant supporting this project, visit the USDOT website.

How Do I Qualify as an Accessibili-D (Detroit ADS) Shuttle Rider?

Wondering if you qualify to ride the free Detroit ADS shuttle service? If you meet the program's qualifications, we encourage you to complete our Expression of Interest (EOI) Form. By filling out the form, you’ll stay informed on how to become a qualified rider and receive updates about the shuttle service.

You can access the form in two ways:

Scan the QR code below OR
Sign up directly here: https://redcap.link/DetroitShuttleDemo

Current Participants: How to Access the Detroit Accessibili-D Free Driverless Shuttle Program

Thank you for being one of the first participants in our innovative shuttle service! As a valued rider, you have access to free rides across over 110 locations throughout Detroit. Below, you’ll find a map and list of shuttle stops.

Accessibili-D Shuttle Route and Stops Map

Accessibili-D Shuttle Designated Stops List

How to Book a Ride:

Those who are eligible can request an on-demand ride through any of these methods.

By App:
Download the ACCESSIBILI-D app for easy ride booking.
- iPhone App (App Store)
- Android App (Google Play)
By Phone:
You can call our ride booking service to schedule your shuttle. Once you are approved, you will be provided a phone number option to call.
For any additional questions, feel free to reach out to Dillon Funkhouser at 313-583-6396 or email [email protected].

Operating Hours:

Monday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday: 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Saturday & Sunday: 8:00 AM – 1:00 PM

Pre-Ride Survey:

Before you take your first ride, we’d love to hear your thoughts! Please complete a brief survey about self-driving vehicles and your expectations for the shuttle service. To take the survey over the phone, call us at 734-615-4744 and leave a message with your name and number. We’ll get back to you as soon as possible.

We look forward to making your transportation around Detroit easier and more accessible!

What is a pilot?

A pilot is a short-term deployment of a product to prove viability and help introduce new tools. These new tools can then be demonstrated at a controlled scale that is then scaled up for real-world solutions.

I. Safety

Our team will demonstrate how an ADS increases safety for pedestrians, passengers, and other vulnerable road users in an urban transportation setting. The video below shows how we are putting the vehicle through rigorous testing before it hits the streets:

The Safe AI Framework for Trustworthy Edge Scenario Tests, or SAFE TEST, was developed by the Center for Connected and Automated Transportation (CCAT) to maximize autonomous vehicle testing efficiency while ensuring testing accuracy. In this video, six driving scenarios are presented using virtual vehicles that are fed to the vehicle under test. These scenarios are deployed in a naturalistic and adversarial driving environment (NADE) to execute adversarial maneuvers against the real-world, test vehicle.

Safety Testing Updates:

Automated shuttle planned for Detroit starts safety testing at Mcity (November 2023)

II. Data

Develop public framework that increases availability and usability of ADS data to inform safety analysis and rulemaking

III. Collaboration

Increase collaboration amongst government entities, private organizations, and residents by promoting transparent communication, understanding community needs, and providing ADS education opportunities.

Mobility Equity

Increase the mobility of older adults and people with disabilities to provide improved quality of life to City of Detroit residents.

City Council President

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City Council Pro Tem

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