A York University-led initiative is helping to shape the future of transportation by supporting startups developing innovative mobility solutions that benefit communities and the environment.
SmartTO is an innovation hub launched in early 2024 at York University in partnership with Centennial College that is driving the growth of Ontario-based startups in the mobility sector.
Together with the Province of Ontario - and with funding by the Ontario Vehicle Innovation Network (OVIN) - SmartTO aims to create a smarter, greener Ontario by collaborating with startups and small- to medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) to develop, test and prototype cutting-edge technologies.
To help these startups navigate development and technical barriers known as "valleys of death," SmartTO provides research expertise, technical guidance and access to state-of-the-art labs and vehicles from York's Lassonde School of Engineering and Centennial's School of Transportation.
Partnering with YSpace, York's entrepreneurship and innovation hub, SmartTO offers essential business development support that empowers startups to thrive within the smart mobility ecosystem.
"We really bring all of what York has to offer and use that to break the innovation barrier and help companies," says Paulina Karwowska-Desaulniers, executive director of SmartTO.
In its first year, SmartTO has advanced technology for nearly 40 companies across various areas of the mobility sector - from micromobility, battery management system to robotics and assistive technology. The initiative works to connect companies with researchers across different disciplines, including material science, computer engineering, civil engineering and geomatics.
One example of this interdisciplinary approach is how SmartTO draws on Lassonde's expertise in mechanical engineering and material development. "We have a lot of expertise at the University focused on smart material development," Karwowska-Desaulniers says.
Projects aimed at creating lighter parts for electric vehicles (EVs) to enhance battery efficiency and contribute to more sustainable production and consumption are currently underway.
SmartTO also works with green energy startups, including a current project focused on converting cooking waste oil into fuel.
One notable project includes the company Deaf AI's initiatives to improve accessibility for people who are deaf and hard-of-hearing, particularly in airports. By developing realistic digital avatars that translate spoken content into sign language within airport signage and mobile apps, the project enhances communication.
Additionally, SmartTO is collaborating with a scooter company, SCOOTY Mobility, testing real-time environmental awareness technology that distinguishes sidewalks from roads. York's Keele Campus serves as the testing ground.
"We're working very closely with the Sustainability Unit to use the campus as a living lab to demonstrate that technology," Karwowska-Desaulniers explains. SmartTO's effort to demonstrate technology on campus will allow for areas of sustainable transportation, energy use, smart grid technology and pedestrian traffic to be piloted and improved on campus.
Another example is SmartTO's work with Real Life Robotics, which develops AI-powered autonomous robots for affordable, eco-friendly local deliveries. Lassonde researchers are integrating the robots with York's Campus Digital Twin System to study their navigation and evaluate environmental impacts, including air quality and energy efficiency.
While SmartTO's focus is on supporting startups, Karwowska-Desaulniers emphasizes a broader vision: "Our goal is to really have York recognized as a leader in transportation mobility."
SmartTO, in collaboration with YSpace, supports York University's strategy for entrepreneurship and offers business support for startups including its flagship Smart Mobility Technology Accelerator (SMTA) program.
More information about SmartTO can be found on its website.
This story was originally featured in YFile, York University's community newsletter.
