Minnesota Department of Transportation

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Connected and Automated Vehicles

Connected and Automated Vehicles

Minnesota is preparing for connected and automated vehicles by observing trends and advancements in vehicle automation, connected vehicle technology, and other emerging trends. MnDOT’s Connected and Automated Vehicle Office (CAV-X) is the convening office for the state’s connected and automated vehicle transportation technology engagement, policy, testing and partnerships. To learn more about MnDOT’s work with electric vehicles visit MnDOT’s Office of Sustainability. To learn about transit in Minnesota visit the MnDOT Transit website.

Governor’s Advisory Council publishes 2020 Annual Report

The Governor’s Advisory Council, chaired by Commissioner Margaret Anderson Kelliher released its annual report (PDF) describing Minnesota’s readiness for the technology and outlining the state’s major CAV efforts. The report highlights the Council’s virtual work during the COVID-19 pandemic, including launching the CAV Innovation Alliance, testing new connected vehicle technologies, conducting a fiber investment plan, and launching the state’s messaging and engagement plan.

What are Connected and Automated Vehicles?

Automated vehicles use technology to steer, accelerate, and brake with little to no human input.  Some vehicles still require a human to monitor the roadway, while other vehicles require no human intervention. 

image of an automated vehicle with the technology it uses to operate

Connected vehicles use technology to either communicate with each other, connect with traffic signals, signs, and other road items, or obtain data from a cloud. This information exchange will help with safety and improve traffic flow.

image of a connected vehicle communicating with traffic signals, signs, other vehicles, bikes, pedestrians

Why CAV?

icreased safety - image of bicyclist and carIncreased safety

Nearly 94 percent of fatalities are caused by human factors; automation has the ability to save lives.

image of woman exiting automonous busGreater mobility and equity

CAV may reduce transportation barriers by providing broader access to live, work and play where they choose.

image of a womanEconomic and workforce development

Minnesota and its workforce are competing in a global market; this technology provides an opportunity to compete in the movement of goods, services and people.

image of traffic Efficiency

CAVs may reduce traffic congestion and improve traffic flow.

image of roadway, land and riverMaximize health and environment

CAV could help us rethink the way we plan our communities to maximize health and sustainable transportation.

For more information about MnDOT’s key automation and connectivity initiatives, see the following focus areas: