INFRASTRUCTURAL FEASIBILITY INVESTIGATION FOR IMPLEMENTING AUTONOMOUS VEHICLES

Abstract

Autonomous vehicles (AVs) have been in high demand over the last few years, and this demand is expected to continue growing. With this growth, infrastructure systems should be updated accordingly. Michigan is one of the AV-friendly states where the infrastructural systems are prepared to be ready for AVs. This research investigates infrastructure system enhancement for Michigan. Future infrastructure would not benefit significantly from AVs on their own, so it's still crucial to implement the proper policy interventions. Smart transportation addressing infrastructural management, sustainability, and development will include AVs as an additional component. Rather than analyzing AVs in isolation, it is necessary to incorporate the new technology context in which implementation occurs. The development of an engagement plan should include key personnel from original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) and AV technology firms. The engagement plan should aid in the identification of deployed and planned AV technologies and the investigation of technical infrastructure modification requirements. As a result of a detailed analysis of the existing research work and implementations on the effects of automation on infrastructure, this paper presents potential challenges to constructing the infrastructure required for automation. The research investigates the state of Michigan, its current applications in infrastructure investigation. The paper reviews the strategic framework in Michigan. As a result of all investigations carried out, the paper gives a feasibility investigation for Michigan’s infrastructure, considering existing challenges. The feasibility investigation mainly gives ideas to researchers and investors about infrastructural adaptation and readiness for autonomous vehicles in Michigan.