May Mobility finalist takes second place in Society of Automotive Analysts' (SAA) Mobility Innovation Awards

May Mobility is excited to share that our accessible autonomous vehicles (AVs) are a finalist in the Society of Automotive Analysts’ (SAA) 2022 Mobility Innovation Awards! Out of 19 submissions, we achieved first runner-up in the “Technologies Enabling a New Business Model” category for our accessible Toyota Sienna Autono-MaaS (S-AM) vehicles, which feature ADA-Compliant wheelchair ramps as well as audio and visual cues for passengers of differing abilities.

Creating accessible and equitable transportation options is a key pillar of our work, and we aim to make transit safer and easier for everyone. The introduction of our newest accessible AVs is the next step in that journey. The wheelchair-accessible vehicles, with rear-entry wheelchair ramps from BraunAbility, can carry a passenger in a wheelchair as well as two ambulatory riders, or four ambulatory riders. They also have space for service animals if needed. We recently announced the first deployment of these vehicles in our most accessible service yet in Grand Rapids, Minnesota.

Judged by industry experts Lindsay Brooke, the editor-in-chief of SAE International, and Abe Vadhavkar, retired director at the Center for Automotive Research, the SAA Mobility Innovation Awards encourage new ideas and perspectives by recognizing innovations across the globe.

Sarah Gryniewicz, strategy analyst at May Mobility, presented the accessible S-AM at the award ceremony. “As we develop the incredible technology of an autonomous vehicle, we are deeply committed to making sure that all members of society can use our vehicles and services,” said Gryniewicz. “We are so honored by the SAA acknowledging the importance of uniting great technology with great accessibility.”

We’re thrilled to have SAA consider us as a nominee and for having the opportunity to connect with peers helping to advance mobility.