Press Releases

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Press Release #15-090
September 3, 2015
Scott Gastel/Bonny Tsang (212) 839-4850

NYC DOT Launches “Drive Smart” Initiative That Uses Technology Innovations To Help NYC Drivers Save Money, Save Time, And Drive More Safely

400 selected drivers will receive the Drive Smart OBD-II device allowing them to access real-time services to help them save money, save time, and drive more safely.

The New York City Department of Transportation (DOT) is starting a pilot program called “Drive Smart,” which uses technology innovations to help drivers save money, save time, and drive more safely. DOT is seeking 400 qualified drivers to join the pilot program. Drivers will receive a custom On Board Diagnostic Device (OBD-II) from DOT. Once connected, the device will collect and transmit data from a car’s on board computer directly to the driver’s smartphone and to the Drive Smart secure cloud server, where it will be used to provide a range of services back to the driver free of charge. Applicants can apply at www.drivesmartnyc.com.

“The ‘Drive Smart’ technology pilot will help drivers save money and drive more safely, and we are excited to begin offering this unique service to New Yorkers” said DOT Commissioner Polly Trottenberg. “Drive Smart will leverage private sector innovations to help motorists spend less time stuck in traffic, and save on gas and insurance.”

Drive Smart participants can earn up to a 30% discount on Allstate auto insurance based on their safe driving habits, which means potential savings on their car insurance premiums.

Additionally, DOT is partnering with technology companies Dash, Metropia, and Commute Greener, as well as Allstate Insurance, to offer a wide range of benefits to participants:

  • The Dash app provides driver feedback including tips on how to improve fuel efficiency and a safe driver score that can be shared with friends and family.
  • Metropia provides route-planning features that help drivers avoid traffic and rewards them for driving during off-peak hours and on less traveled routes.
  • For those looking to reduce the amount of time they spend driving, the Commute Greener app will help pilot participants make greener travel choices and win rewards for carpooling, bicycling, and using mass transit when possible.

“Allstate is excited to partner with the New York State City Department of Transportation to support the Drive Smart program,” said Jaclyn Darrohn, Allstate New York spokesperson. “This program encourages safe driving that benefits everyone on the road and participants can save money on their insurance for driving safely.”

Dash is excited to serve the city by partnering with the Department of Transportation in the Drive Smart program,” said Jamyn Edis and Brian Langel, who founded the company in 2012. “Drive Smart will enable more New Yorkers to join the rapidly growing community of a quarter of a million drivers already using Dash to make the roads smarter, safer, greener and more affordable.”

Metropia is thrilled to partner with New York City’s Department of Transportation in an effort to reduce traffic congestion through the Drive Smart program,” said Yi-Chang Chiu, Founder of Metropia. “Participants will receive rewards for using our accurate traffic predictions to plan their commutes in advance and avoid New York’s infamous gridlock.”

“Commute Greener will engage New Yorkers to take alternative modes of transport and reduce congestion in a playful and rewarding way. By joining the Drive Smart team we are excited to create a better path towards sustainable development,” say Alexander Koeppen and Magnus Kuschel, leaders of Commute Greener and have been leading the growth of the open innovation platform for mobility.

The pilot will run through August 2016 and New York City residents can learn more about the program and apply to participate at www.drivesmartnyc.com. Applicants will need to have a valid driver’s license, a car, and an Android or iOS smartphone. DOT is also looking to partner with employers across the five boroughs who are interested in helping their employees save money and improve their daily commute. To become a Drive Smart Employer Partner or order Drive Smart brochures, please contact the Drive Smart Coordinator, at drivesmart@dot.nyc.gov.

Drive Smart device

 

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