Perrone Robotics Achieves Milestone with Over a Year of Autonomous Transit in Detroit

Perrone Robotics Hits One-Year Milestone in Detroit

Perrone Robotics, a frontrunner in the realm of autonomous vehicles and robotics technology, has proudly announced a significant milestone. The company's CONNECT autonomous transit service in Detroit has successfully been in operation for over a year, now recognized as the longest-running public transit autonomous electric shuttle service in the U.S.

Launch of CONNECT Autonomous Shuttle

Established in August 2024, the Detroit CONNECT fleet consists of Ford E-Transit vans, specifically designed with Perrone Robotics’ proprietary TONY® (TO Navigate You) and MAX® autonomous vehicle technologies. This initiative marks a first in the nation, presenting the Ford E-Transit as the foundation for a public autonomous transit fleet deployment.

The City of Detroit, actively pursuing innovative methods to enhance urban mobility, has made substantial strides in implementing autonomous technologies to improve transportation access and efficiency. Tim Slusser, Chief of Mobility Innovation for Detroit, stated, "Through our Connect AV pilot, we deployed the nation’s first fleet of autonomous Ford E-Transit vans, powered by Perrone's TONY AV platform. This endeavor provides essential insights into how scalable autonomy can enhance first- and last-mile connectivity in urban transit networks."

A Model for Sustainable Transit

The CONNECT fleet operates along an extensive route of over 10 miles, which spans from the Rivertown Warehouse District to downtown Detroit, reaching key destinations such as entertainment centers, grocery stores, and community hubs. By offering safe, zero-emission mobility options, the service caters to both residents and visitors. The steady growth in ridership since its inception demonstrates the program’s success and the potential of autonomous systems to integrate seamlessly into city infrastructures and public transit networks.

Originally funded by a $1.5 million contract, the program covers complete vehicle operations, technology integration, and continuous support. This showcases Perrone Robotics' capability to deliver real-world autonomous vehicle deployments that align with safety, accessibility, and regulatory standards.

Two Decades of Experience in Automated Systems

Perrone Robotics boasts over 20 years of expertise in automated systems, establishing itself as a reliable name in the field. The TONY AV kit, which is central to its autonomous solutions, has demonstrated versatility across numerous platforms and applications. The Ford E-Transit has now served as a robust, zero-emission, compliant foundation for Perrone's technology for more than two years. This program underscores the importance of U.S. innovation, with its patented and manufactured technology reflecting the company’s commitment to safe, accessible, and sustainable mobility solutions.

Paul Perrone, Founder and CEO, emphasizes the success of the initiative, stating, "Detroit has shown the world that autonomy can be done safely, reliably, and at scale. By combining our TONY and MAX systems with proven vehicle platforms like the Ford E-Transit, cities like Detroit can accelerate into an autonomous future today, not tomorrow."

About Perrone Robotics

Perrone Robotics remains at the forefront of automated vehicle technology, specializing in advanced systems for transit, commercial, and government applications. With patented innovations like the TONY AV ADAS Kits and MAX software platforms, the company is dedicated to delivering reliable, scalable, and versatile autonomous solutions that aim to revolutionize transportation and mobility.