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Glydways has announced a new 14-acre Development and Demonstration Facility in Richmond, California, as it prepares for its first Automated Transit Network (ATN) pilot launch in 2026. The facility, located on part of the former Hilltop Mall site, will showcase Glydways’ innovative transit solutions and serve as a testing ground for safety and reliability. The move represents a significant milestone in Glydways’ mission to revolutionize urban mobility with scalable, zero-emission transit systems.
Key Highlights
- Facility Location and Features:
- Situated on a 14-acre site at the former Hilltop Mall in Richmond, CA.
- Includes a mile-long test track for real-world transit simulation.
- Features a 13,000-square-foot Maintenance and Storage Facility (MSF).
- Visitor Engagement:
- On-demand demonstrations with Glydcars.
- Immersive virtual reality experiences in the showroom.
- Tours of the Operations and Control Center (OCC).
- Strategic Positioning:
- Near the upcoming 28-mile ATN project in East Contra Costa County.
- Collaboration with Contra Costa Transportation Authority (CCTA) and Tri Delta Transit.
- Economic and Community Impact:
- Boosts Richmond’s economic development and transit innovation leadership.
- Aligns with local sustainability and growth initiatives.
Glydways CEO Gokul Hemmady emphasized the transformative potential of the facility, stating, “Our goal is to build a scalable, high-capacity transit system that meets the demands of modern cities while reducing congestion and emissions. With this new facility, we’re giving the public a glimpse of the future, where people can experience ultra-quiet, on-demand transit—just like hailing a rideshare, but with the reliability and affordability of public transit.”
Tim Haile, Executive Director of CCTA, praised the development as a realization of their vision for innovative transit solutions: “Glydways’ expansion is making that vision a reality. This milestone represents a significant step forward in efficient, sustainable public transit and a boost for Richmond’s economic development.”
City leaders echoed their enthusiasm. Richmond City Council Member Cesar Zepeda noted the project’s alignment with the city’s values, calling it a “transformative initiative that embodies Richmond’s commitment to innovation, sustainability, and economic growth.”
The Richmond City Manager, Shasa Curl, highlighted the dual benefits of testing cutting-edge technology and revitalizing the former mall site while long-term redevelopment plans are finalized.
About Glydways
Founded in 2016, Glydways aims to revolutionize urban mobility with its fully autonomous, high-capacity Automated Transit Network (ATN). The closed-road, zero-emission Glydcars offer on-demand, 24/7 transit solutions at public transit prices, eliminating congestion and emissions while improving safety and efficiency.
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