Programs & Labs
History Channel features Intelligent Vehicle Initiative
A technology-enhanced State Patrol cruiser was among the IVI vehicles filmed.
A technology-enhanced State Patrol cruiser was among the IVI vehicles filmed.
The Intelligent Vehicle Initiative (IVI), a three-year field operational test program funded by the Federal Highway Administration, Mn/DOT, and industry partners, was featured in the premiere episode of the History Channel's new series "Tactical to Practical." The first of 13 one-hour episodes highlighting the use of technology to increase safety and security aired September 9.
The goal of the IVI is to increase safety for the drivers of specialty vehicles—snowplows, police cars, ambulances, and buses—through the use of vehicle-guidance and collision-avoidance technologies. University researchers led by ITS Institute director Max Donath are developing and testing a variety of these technologies as part of the initiative.
A History Channel crew worked with Mn/DOT, State Patrol, University of Minnesota, and Metro Transit staff last winter to film a State Patrol squad car, a snowplow, and the TechnoBus. The vehicle-guidance and collision-avoidance technologies allow the driver to "see" the roadway in a head-up display during adverse weather conditions such as snow, fog, and heavy rain.
John Scharffbillig, Mn/DOT's field project manager with intelligent transportation systems, and Jeff Goldsmith, a Minnesota state trooper, were included in the segment.