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Announcing the Launch of the Rural Autonomous Vehicle (RAV) Research Program

The U.S. Department of Transportation is excited to introduce the Rural Autonomous Vehicle (RAV) Research Program, an innovative initiative backed by a $25 million funding opportunity. This program is designed to bring the benefits of automated vehicle technology to rural and Tribal communities across the United States, enhancing safety, accessibility, and efficiency in these regions. 

Program Overview

The RAV Research Program will allocate funds to two key areas:

  • $15 million for Passenger Transportation: Led by the University of Wisconsin-Madison, this research will focus on the integration of automated vehicles into passenger transport, testing high-precision mapping technologies and multimodal vehicle fleet operations.
  • $10 million for Freight Movement: The University of California, Berkeley will direct its efforts towards improving the efficiency and safety of autonomous freight vehicles, particularly focusing on rural logistics and supply chain enhancements in the Southwest.

Importance of the RAV Program

With 19% of the U.S. population living in rural areas—where 47% of roadway fatalities occur—the RAV program aims to address these critical safety challenges while also supporting economic development through advanced transportation solutions. 

Engagement and Further Information

Join us in shaping the future of transportation in rural and Tribal communities by leveraging the potential of automated technologies for a safer and more connected world. For additional details on the RAV Research Program, visit the Notice of Funding Opportunity (NOFO) page: Notice of Funding Opportunity (NOFO)for first-of-its-kind Rural Autonomous Vehicle (RAV) Research Program. An Informational Webinar for the Rural Autonomous Vehicle Program NOFO was held on January 19, 2024. Recording of the webinar is now available. Passcode: Vq=N7j73

Q&As about the competition are posted on the RAV NOFO Questions and Answers page.

If you have additional questions, please contact caesar.singh@dot.gov.

Last updated: Monday, April 14, 2025