UofM Opens Center for Electrified and Automated Trucking
Industry-University cooperative research center is the first on the university campus
The University of Memphis recently opened the Center for Electrified and Automated Trucking (CEAT) on campus, introducing its first Industry-University Cooperative Research Center (IUCRC).
Sponsored by the National Science Foundation, CEAT is poised to lead the advancement of electric and autonomous vehicle technologies in the freight and transit sectors. Bringing together academia and industry, CEAT aims to address the complex challenges facing the trucking industry, with a strong focus on electrification, automation, and workforce development.
“My background has been spent working at the intersection of the academy and industry and I understand the value when you get those two groups together,” said UofM President Bill Hardgrave. “To me, this is the type of thing where the magic happens.”
Hardgrave highlighted the significance of housing CEAT in the FedEx Institute of Technology (FIT), noting that it reflects logistics and supply chain excellence. CEAT's leadership team, including site director Dr. Sabya Mishra emphasized the center's commitment to collaboration, aiming to develop solutions that respond directly to the needs of the industry while creating positive impacts for the broader community.
During CEAT's kick-off meeting Oct. 17-18, over 25 industries attended. More than 20 faculty members and students from the University of Memphis, Purdue University–in Indianapolis and Indiana University-Indianapolis presented a range of innovative project ideas to focus on the trucking and transit industry electrification and automation.
Topics included battery recycling, workforce development and sustainable freight solutions, underscoring the center's interdisciplinary approach to research. By integrating academic expertise with real-world industry insights, CEAT is set to become a driving force in the future of freight and transit innovation.
CEAT is currently seeking additional industry partnerships. To connect with Mishra, visit to email him at smishra3@memphis.edu.
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Grand Opening of C-TIER and CEAT Research Centers at the FedEx Institute of Technology.
Dr. Okenwa Okoli, Dean of the Herff College of Engineering, tests the C-TIER Manual and Automated Driving Simulator in the Driving Simulation and Visualization Lab (FIT 430); a lab to be used by the campus community for overall research in transportation emerging technology and logistics areas.
Purpose of the simulator:
- Human factors research: The simulator allows researchers to study driver behavior, attention, and cognitive processes in controlled conditions.
- Vehicle design and testing: Manufacturers can use simulators to test new vehicle designs and safety features before they reach the market.
- Advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) evaluation: It help assess the effectiveness and impact of ADAS technologies on driver behavior and safety.
- Traffic engineering and road design: The simulator can be used to evaluate the impact of road design changes on traffic flow and safety.
- Enhanced learning environment: The simulator provides a controlled environment where drivers can practice in various scenarios without the risks of real-world driving.
- Hazard awareness: It exposes drivers to potential hazards they might encounter on the road, increasing their awareness and preparedness.
- Virtual and Immersive reality: It offers realistic driving experiences for entertainment purposes, including racing games and virtual reality simulations.