UofM Opens Center for Electrified and Automated Trucking  

Industry-University Cooperative Research Center is the First on Campus 

Monday, Oct. 21, 2024 — 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. 

#### 

MEDIA CONTACT: 
Jennifer Godwin 
Director of Media and Public Relations 
jennifer.godwin@memphis.edu 
(O) 901.678.4822 (M) 501.529.7482