The City of Saskatoon, Sask., is expected to receive $2.9 million in funding towards research on connected and automated vehicles from Transport Canada.
More specifically, the funding will be provided under the program to Advance Connectivity and Automation in the Transportation System in an effort to help Canadian jurisdictions prepare for these vehicles, receiving support for research, studies, and technology demonstrations across the country.
“Creating a connected community is an essential foundation for a strong, resilient city that is prepared for the challenges of the modern world,” said Charlie Clark, Mayor of Saskatoon. “Technology is changing transportation in dramatic and challenging ways, and cities across the world are at the forefront of navigating these changes. We are appreciative of the support of the federal government as we seek out the best ways of ensuring our transportation system will serve us well into the future.”
The results of this funding and support are meant to help address technical, policy and regulatory issues regarding connected and automated cars. The information or findings pulled from this project will also be shared to help propel innovation in Canada, according to a Transport Canada news release.
Transport Canada says it is currently working with international governments through the United Nations to develop guidelines and regulatory requirements that will help promote the safe deployment of automated vehicle features. They are also working with Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada, along with other federal departments and provincial and territorial governments, to create a “coherent national approach that will facilitate the safe introduction of these technologies on Canadian roads.”
“Connected and automated vehicle technology has immense potential and will have a tremendous impact on our transportation system,” said The Honourable Marc Garneau, Minister of Transport. “This funding will help our stakeholders improve their understanding of connected and automated vehicle technologies, and how to safely and securely integrate them into our road system in order to capture their many benefits.”
