Autonomous Vehicle Maker NAVYA to Open First U.S. Plant in Michigan

In a joint announcement, NAVYA with project collaborators Michigan Economic Development Corporation (MEDC) and Ann Arbor SPARK announce that its Michigan plant will be located in the city of Saline, Michigan with a 20,000+ sq. ft. facility.

NAVYA plans to build approximately 25 of its ARMA fully autonomous shuttle vehicles at the plant before the close of 2017. NAVYA’s breakthrough ARMA shuttle has become a global leader in first and last mile transportation solutions with a fleet of 45 vehicles deployed worldwide and more than 170,000 passengers transported to date. With the addition of its new plant in Saline the company will be able to boost production significantly to serve the growing North American market.

The project is expected to generate a total capital investment of more than $1 million and create 50 jobs, resulting in a $435,000 Michigan Business Development performance-based grant. The funds are approved by the Michigan Strategic Fund and administered by the Michigan Economic Development Corporation.

NAVYA ARMA is a safe, reliable and comfortable 100% autonomous, driverless and electric public transport vehicle that can carry up to 15 people. It has been designed to ensure the specific functions of an autonomous vehicle while optimizing navigation and safety. The shuttle is equipped with a multitude of sensor technology to provide 3D vision which enables it to map out the environment, detect obstacles in its path and identify traffic and road signs. The NAVYA ARMA shuttle can reach speeds of 28miles/hr.

Category: Connected Fleet News, General Update