OORT, a decentralized AI cloud platform, is collaborating with the US National Science Foundation’s (NSF) eCAT (Electric, Connected, and Autonomous Technologies for Mobility) IUCRC research center, according to a recent statement shared with CryptoSlate.
OORT stated that this collaboration represents a key milestone in developing next-generation technologies—including electrification, resilient sensing, real-time edge computing, and smart infrastructure—to improve the safety and efficiency of electric, connected, and autonomous vehicles.
The project began on July 10 and involved collaboration with several leading US universities like Wayne State University, Clarkson University, the University of North Texas, the University of Delaware, and Oakland University.
The focus will be on “Research Thrust #4: Infrastructure for Connectivity and Safety.” OORT said its products, including the OORT DataHub and OORT Storage, will play an integral role in the research.
In addition, OORT plans to collaborate with American data storage leader Western Digital to combine cutting-edge technology with industry expertise and explore the potential of AI and mobility innovations.
OORT CEO Max Li expressed enthusiasm about applying decentralization technology to real-world products, starting with autonomous vehicles. Li added:
“Decentralization technology has immense potential, and we are excited to see it applied in real-world products, with autonomous vehicles being an ideal starting point.”
Prof. Caisheng Wang, Director of the eCAT Center at Wayne State University, emphasized the importance of this collaboration for advancing next-generation mobility technologies and maintaining US leadership in this crucial field.
The NSF funds 25% of all federally supported research at US universities, backed by a $9.9 billion annual budget. NSF’s influence spans from AI and autonomous vehicles to space exploration, shaping the future of science and technology.
Through the Industry-University Cooperative Research Centers (IUCRC) program, the NSF fosters collaboration between universities and industries.
Meanwhile, this initiative follows OORT’s recent expansion into Asia. A few weeks ago, the company joined China’s Shenzhen Data Exchange to make its products available in the region.