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.

What are connected and automated vehicles?

image of an automated vehicle with the technology it uses to operateAutomated 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 a connected vehicle communicating with traffic signals, signs, other vehicles, bikes, pedestriansConnected vehicles

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.

Introduction to CAV

Introduction to Connected and Automated Vehicles (CAV) video, including what are connected vehicles, what are automated vehicles, examples of CAV technology on the road, and how MnDOT is preparing for CAV.

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.

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