OVIN auto tech demo sites in Markham and Vaughan now open for applications

yorkregion.com
Dec. 14, 2023
Yoyo Yan

The City of Markham and City of Vaughan, with funding from the Ontario government through Ontario Vehicle Innovation Network (OVIN), officially launched the Demonstration Zone and are now inviting businesses to apply to demonstrate their mobility technologies.

Selected smart and clean automotive and mobility technologies will be on display in Markham and Vaughan, where innovators will test, pilot and showcase them. The first round of businesses will pilot their projects in early 2024.

“The exciting launch of the Demonstration Zone in Markham not only supports businesses in the transportation sector but also reaffirms our commitment to advance the future of sustainable mobility technologies,” said Markham Mayor Frank Scarpitti.

The launch comes after the announcement made earlier this summer of the $2.5 million in funding awarded to the cities of Markham and Vaughan by the OVIN and Province of Ontario to develop automotive and smart mobility Demonstration Zones.

The funding came as part of the Ontario government’s $56.4-million commitment, over four years, to support OVIN.

“As a world leader in the automotive sector, Ontario has everything we need to build the cars of the future, today,” said Vic Fedeli, minister of economic development, job creation and trade.

“The launch of the OVIN Demonstration Zone in partnership with the City of Markham and the City of Vaughan is a testament to Ontario’s commitment to fostering innovation and driving positive change in the transportation sector,” said Raed Kadri, head of the Ontario Vehicle Innovation Network.

Businesses with innovative mobility and transportation solutions are encouraged to apply at ovindz.ca. The program offers two different streams for applications and there will be three intake rounds in total:

1. Challenge Area Stream: Specifically targeting two challenge areas identified by the cities of Markham and Vaughan.

For Markham, the spotlight is on “First and Last Mile Solutions.” They are seeking technology providers who can help bridge the gap between Markham Centre and Unionville Go Station, with the aim of enhancing the commuting experience and connecting citizens to public transportation.

For Vaughan, the emphasis has been placed on “Cycle Lane Maintenance.” They are looking for businesses with innovative solutions to improve operational efficiency and uphold safety standards in cycle lane maintenance operations.

Applications are being accepted until Jan. 29, 2024 for Vaughan’s Cycle Lane Maintenance challenge, and until Feb. 12, 2024 for Markham’s First and Last Mile Solutions challenge.

2. General Open Call Stream: Open to all applicants with mobility technology solutions.

Interested companies can find application details and more information about the OVIN Demonstration Zone at ovindz.ca. Applications are being accepted until Feb. 12, 2024. Applications will reopen with newly selected challenge areas in the spring of 2024.