Detroit, known as the Motor City, is leveraging its rich history of automotive innovation to drive its mobility ecosystem into the modern era.
At the heart of this transformation lies Detroit’s historic Corktown neighborhood, home to the Detroit Smart Parking Lab (DSPL) and Michigan Central. Michigan Central, a 30-acre innovation district, serves as a vital hub and real-world testing ground for mobility solutions that promote a more sustainable and equitable future.
DSPL plays a key role in attracting early-stage mobility prototypes to Detroit, showcasing the importance of a dynamic ecosystem that supports all stages of development.
Originally functioning as a traditional parking garage for The Assembly residential development, DSPL underwent a technological makeover in 2021 thanks to a partnership between Bosch, Ford, and Bedrock. This transformation included the installation of gigabit-speed internet and advanced electrical infrastructure, enabling Bosch to successfully test America’s first live deployment of its Autonomous Vehicle Parking (AVP) system in a real-world parking setting.
Public endorsements from the Michigan Economic Development Corporation have further fueled the growth of DSPL, with over $1 million in grants supporting 20 startups at the lab over the past two years.
Bedrock CEO Kofi Bonner explains, “The DSPL was created with a specific purpose in mind. As the birthplace of the automobile, Detroit provides a platform for entrepreneurs to innovate and apply cutting-edge technology right here in the Motor City.”
INNOVATION BRINGS VENTURE CAPITAL
A prime example of DSPL’s impact is ItsElectric, a company that entered the Detroit mobility ecosystem in 2022 with an EV charging prototype and later earned recognition as Fast Company’s “Next Big Thing in Tech.” ItsElectric has since secured additional funding, relocated its headquarters to Newlab, and is poised for a full product launch this year.
The rapid pace of innovation at DSPL has attracted nearly $500 million in startup funding in 2023, positioning Detroit as one of the fastest-growing venture capital ecosystems globally.
Lieutenant Governor of Michigan, Garlin Gilchrist II, states, “Michigan has a long history of innovation, and we are proud to see the development of future mobility solutions right here. Our continued support for the Detroit Smart Parking Lab will solidify Michigan as a leader in high-tech mobility education and testing.”
SHAPING THE FUTURE OF SUSTAINABLE TRANSPORTATION
Beyond Corktown, Detroit’s innovation extends with projects like The Connect, a zero-emission shuttle program connecting Corktown to the east riverfront using autonomous shuttles. Additionally, the Urban Technology Xchange (UTX) partnership between Bedrock, Bosch, Cisco, and KODE Labs aims to revolutionize building technology and AI deployment in downtown Detroit.
Technology is becoming increasingly vital to the economy, and cities that embrace innovation will thrive. Detroit, with its focus on mobility and automotive heritage, is at the forefront. As more organizations, investors, and entrepreneurs contribute to shaping the future of transportation, Detroit is poised for continued growth and success.
