Michigan Department of Transportation (MDoT) has entered a partnership to use 3M's connected vehicle technologies along the three-mile stretch at the ongoing I-75 modernisation project in Oakland County, US. 

By using 3M technology, the transport authorities intend to transform the three-mile road on the I-75. The technology helps improve safety of drivers and also creates a new platform for testing advanced vehicle-to-infrastructure (V2I) technologies on connected and autonomous vehicles.

Michigan State Transportation director Kirk Steudle said: "Technology is transforming not only how we live, but also how we drive. 

"Michigan is globally recognised as the leader in automated vehicle research and technology, and through our Planet M initiative, we have solidified ourselves as the hub for mobility innovation.

“In the spirit of Michigan's commitment to collaboration in the smart mobility sector, we are excited to partner with 3M on this project to make the concept of connected roadways and autonomous driving a reality.”

Under the deal, 3M will be providing advanced all-weather lane markings, retroreflective signs with smart sign technology and DSRC (dedicated short-range communication) devices for vehicle-to-infrastructure communications. 

"We are always looking for ways to collaborate and innovate as the industry continues to evolve."

Authorities expect using these latest technologies and materials to enhance the safety of commuters, and allow for redundancy and greater machine vision. 

To ensure the safety of workers at the project site, 3M will also offer its Scotchlite reflective material for personnel clothing that is compliant with American National Standards Institute (ANSI).

3M traffic safety and security division vice-president and general manager John Riccardi said: "We are always looking for ways to collaborate and innovate as the industry continues to evolve. The future of mobility requires an open ecosystem in which industry leaders connect and collaborate to create new technologies that improve our roadways.

“The state of Michigan is leading the charge when it comes to the future of mobility and we are looking forward to seeing where this partnership goes."

In addition, the state transport department will be installing permanent roadside units (RSUs) to further support connected and automated vehicles, and to improve the travel time, MNDoT will be realigning interchanges and upgrade geometrics.

Upon completion, the I-75 modernisation project will see the creation of 17 miles of interstate road that will have the potential to support advanced technology and vehicles of the future.