American Center for Mobility
Overview
The American Center for Mobility (ACM) is a premier automotive testing and development facility specializing in automated and connected vehicle technologies. Situated in Ypsilanti Township, Michigan, ACM spans 500 acres on the historic Willow Run site. Established in December 2017, it serves as a proving ground for innovative automotive solutions. The center was developed as a joint initiative involving Ann Arbor SPARK, Business Leaders for Michigan, and the Michigan Economic Development Corporation, among others. ACM has raised significant funding from industry giants like AT&T, Ford, and Toyota, supporting its mission to advance the future of mobility.
Recent Developments
- January 2025: Michigan Technological University became ACM's engineering services provider, collaborating on sustainable vehicle technologies and advanced mobility solutions. This includes securing $20 million in joint federal funding for advanced mobility projects.
- March 2024: ACM partnered with WeaveGrid to test EV-Grid integration software at its Willow Run facility. This initiative, supported by the Michigan Mobility Funding Platform, aims to enhance the integration of electric vehicles with the grid.
- February 2023: ACM and HARMAN announced a strategic collaboration to test road-ready connectivity products using 5G and edge computing. This effort focuses on enhancing road safety and efficiency through real-world testing environments.
- September 2022: ACM announced the 'Mobility4All Parkway' as part of its partnership with Toyota, highlighting their commitment to universal and accessible mobility solutions.
Company Information
| Attribute | Information |
|---|---|
| Founding Date | December 2017 |
| Headquarters | Ypsilanti Township, Michigan, USA |
| Founders | State of Michigan, Ann Arbor SPARK, among others |
| Revenue | Not publicly disclosed |
| Profits | Not publicly disclosed |
| Key Investors | AT&T, Ford, Hyundai America Technical Center, Toyota |
| Industry | Automotive, Engineering Services |
| Number of Employees | Approximately 16 employees |
Early History
The American Center for Mobility was founded in 2017, leveraging the historic Willow Run site that previously housed GM's Ypsilanti Transmission Plant. This initiative was part of a collaborated effort among governmental and automotive entities—including the State of Michigan, the University of Michigan, and various industry stakeholders—to revitalize the local economy and position Michigan as a leader in mobility innovation. The site was transformed into a cutting-edge testing ground featuring a mix of highway, arterial, and urban driving environments.
Company Profile and Achievements
The ACM has established itself as a leader in the development and testing of automated vehicle technologies. It operates a 2.5-mile highway loop, a 1.5-mile urban arterial, a 700-foot tunnel, and various intersections to simulate real-world driving conditions. Notable achievements include:
- Hosting a wide range of mobility and testing events like the Demo Days showcasing ADAS and AV technologies.
- Implementing one of the first 5G-enabled vehicle testing environments in partnership with HARMAN and industry-leading automotive suppliers.
- Providing a collaborative platform for technological advancements through partnerships with educational institutions and leading tech companies like Siemens and WeaveGrid.
Current Operations and Market Position
ACM continues to operate as a leading proving ground for the automotive and mobility sectors, leveraging its comprehensive testing environments to simulate real-world conditions. It remains at the forefront of the industry by actively collaborating with automakers, tech companies, and research institutions. ACM’s strategic location in Michigan—a hub for automotive research and development—provides it with a unique competitive advantage in both the national and international markets.
Conclusion
The American Center for Mobility stands as a pivotal institution in the advancement of mobility technology. Its strategic initiatives and substantial industry partnerships position it as a leader in automotive innovation and research. With its deep-rooted commitment to sustainable and secure mobility solutions, ACM is poised to continue playing a critical role in shaping the future of the automotive industry. As it advances its technology and expands its capabilities, ACM’s impact on smart mobility continues to grow, promising a transformative future for transportation.