Gentex Corporation and TransCore are teaming up to provide auto manufacturers with a vehicle-integrated tolling solution that enables motorists to drive on all U.S. toll roads without a traditional toll tag on the windshield. Gentex and TransCore have signed an agreement to integrate TransCore's Universal Toll Module (UTM) technology into Gentex's electronic rearview mirrors. The interior mirror is the optimal location for a vehicle-integrated toll transponder and it eliminates the need to affix multiple toll tags to the windshield."Gentex is always interested in combining new technologies with our auto-dimming mirrors due to the ideal location of our product," said senior vice president and CFO Steve Downing. "This strategic partnership with TransCore allows us to develop an all new product offering that helps automakers seamlessly integrate toll collection into the car, just like they've done with navigation systems, HomeLink, satellite radio, and other technologies that debuted in the aftermarket. UTM offers the new car owner the ability to enjoy a hassle-free driving experience using managed lanes and toll roads across the country." Since the Universal Toll Module enables travel across all U.S. toll roads, motorists would no longer need multiple toll tags for different regions of the country or have to manage multiple toll accounts, Gentex said.In 2012, President Obama signed into law the Moving Ahead for Progress in the 21st Century Act (MAP-21). The Act calls for the development of a nationally interoperable electronic toll collection system by October 2016. The UTM provides transportation agencies with an interoperability solution without costly infrastructure changes to the thousands of miles of toll lanes throughout the country.
