Commercial On-Demand AVs Expands in Grand Rapids
May Mobility has expanded its AV commercial service in Grand Rapids, MI, with an on-demand shuttle operation.
The service, which started last month, is part of Phase 2 of the Grand Rapids Autonomous Vehicle Initiative (AVGR) and moves it previous fixed-route AV service into a flexible, dynamic system in a new service zone.
The service, which includes four May Mobility Lexus RX450h vehicles and one wheelchair-accessible Polaris GEM equipped with May Mobility’s autonomous technology, operates within a 1.36 square mile service zone that includes more than 20 designated pick up and drop off areas in downtown Grand Rapids. The May Mobility AV shuttles are free to ride and operate Monday to Friday from 7am to 7 pm.
Riders can request vehicles within the designated area of service by downloading the May Mobility mobile application, which is available for both Android and iOS devices. The app shows the rider the nearest pickup location and suggested drop off location within closest proximity to their point of interest.
Edwin Olson, co-founder and CEO of May Mobility, said: “We look forward to continuing our partnership with the City of Grand Rapids through an expanded zone in the downtown area. The new service allows us to explore transportation needs in new areas of the community and provides additional opportunities for people to experience safer, greener, more accessible transportation through autonomous mobility.”
— Paul Myles is a seasoned automotive journalist based in Europe. Follow him on Twitter @Paulmyles_
