The Government of Canada has decided to support research on connected and automated vehicles in a step to prepare domestic jurisdictions for the transformation of the transport system.

Under the initiative, the government will provide C$2.9m ($2.24m) of funding through Transport Canada under the Advance Connectivity and Automation in the Transportation System programme.

Funding will support research and studies across the country. The result of the research will enable in devising technical, policy and regulatory framework for connected and automated vehicles.

Results will also be shared to encourage further studies on connected and automated vehicles across Canada.

“This funding will help our stakeholders improve their understanding of connected and automated vehicle technologies, and how to safely and securely integrate them into our road system.”

Canada Minister of Transport Marc Garneau said: “Connected and automated vehicle technology has immense potential and will have a tremendous impact on our transportation system.

“This funding will help our stakeholders improve their understanding of connected and automated vehicle technologies, and how to safely and securely integrate them into our road system in order to capture their many benefits.”

He also announced C$290,000 of funding to the City of Calgary to form a connected vehicle test-bed, as well as another C$50,000 for testing an automated shuttle service.

The minister also awarded another C$50,000 to Canadian National Institute for the Blind to study the impacts of connected and automated vehicles on pedestrians with significant sight difficulties.

Last year, the Advance Connectivity and Automation in the Transportation System programme solicited proposals for grants and contributions to all interested entities.

These projects will be completed by 31 March 2022.