The idea of self-driving cars is no longer a futuristic concept; it’s here, and it’s now. Highly researched and developed experimental models are being tested all over the world, even in our local communities such as Hamilton, Ontario. Made easier with government funding through the Autonomous Vehicle Innovation Network (AVIN), autonomous vehicles will soon showcase their ability to make Canada’s roads safer and more affordable.
To support automotive innovation by testing self-driving cars and bringing them to market, eligible Ontario SMES can receive up to 33% of eligible costs to a maximum of $1M in grants.
The future of automation depends on funding support such as AVIN’s AV Research and Development Partnership Fund which endorses projects testing self-driving cars on public roads to help researchers better understand and develop long-lasting technology. These pilots, labeled as technological demonstrations by AVIN, are not only critical in examining the success of new autonomous technologies, but also generate public awareness and acceptance of fast-moving technological advancement.