Ford Testing Vehicle-to-Vehicle Communication in Michigan

FordFordUnited States of America, 1903 > present92 models
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is taking part in the test of vehicle-to-vehicle (V2V) communication technology in Ann Arbor Michigan along with General MotorsGMUnited States of America, 1998 > present8 models
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, the US Department of Transportation and University of Michigan. It is the same test that GM is testing in Ann Arbor, Michigan. The test is looking at V2V and vehicle-to-infrastructure technology (V2I).

Ford will provide some cars with V2V communication equipment. The technology uses Wi-Fi and dedicated short-range communication technology to send information among cars about road situations. Every car on the road broadcasts its speed, direction and location. Ford thinks that it can use the technology to mitigate traffic congestion.

“This cutting-edge technology offers real promise for improving both the safety and efficiency of our roads. That is a winning combination for drivers across America," said U.S. Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood.

Ann Arbor and the USDOT installed 73 lane-miles of V2I connected roads in the city. There will be about 3,000 vehicles taking part in the study. The study is also attempting to develop standardized V2V and V2I systems. 

General Motors has eight BuicksBuickUnited States of America, 1903 > present68 models
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and CadillacsCadillacUnited States of America, 1902 > present79 models
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equipped with V2V communication technology. The test runs from late 2012 to late 2013. 

Ford is working on similar technology in Germany to develop V2V and V2I tech for Europe. 

General Motors Beginning Real World Test of Connected Vehicle System in Michigan