Made in America V2X Tech Paves the Way for Safer, Smarter Roads

Houston, TX – In a significant step forward for U.S. infrastructure and domestic manufacturing, Ettifos has announced its V2X-AIR device is the first of its kind to fully comply with the Build America, Buy America (BABA) Act. This achievement positions the company to capitalize on the billions of dollars allocated for connected vehicle technology under the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA), while bolstering a resilient domestic supply chain.

Cellular Vehicle-to-Everything (C-V2X) technology is poised to revolutionize road safety and efficiency by enabling vehicles to communicate with each other, infrastructure, and pedestrians. The V2X-AIR device facilitates this communication, providing critical alerts for collision warnings, work zone hazards, and improved intersection management. But until now, a fully domestically sourced device has been a significant hurdle for widespread adoption within federally funded projects.

“This isn’t just about checking a box for compliance,” explains a source familiar with the company’s strategy. “It’s about building a secure, reliable, and resilient infrastructure for the future of transportation. And that starts with controlling the supply chain.”

BABA Compliance: A Game Changer

The BABA Act, a key component of the IIJA, mandates that all iron, steel, construction materials, and manufactured products used in federally funded projects must be made in the U.S. This requirement has presented challenges for many companies reliant on global supply chains. Ettifos, however, proactively invested in establishing a fully domestic manufacturing base at its 50,000 square foot facility in Houston, Texas.

“Ettifos’ proactive approach is a clear differentiator,” notes a supply chain analyst. “Many companies are still grappling with the complexities of BABA compliance, while Ettifos is already positioned to benefit from the influx of federal funding.”

This achievement wasn’t without its challenges. Securing reliable domestic sourcing for specialized components required significant investment and strategic partnerships. “It required a complete rethinking of our manufacturing processes,” admits a company insider. “But the long-term benefits – both for our company and for the nation – are well worth the effort.”

Billions on the Table: The IIJA Opportunity

The IIJA allocates approximately $7.3 billion for V2X and connected vehicle projects over five years. This funding is intended to accelerate the deployment of this transformative technology, improving road safety, reducing congestion, and supporting economic growth.

“The potential impact is enormous,” says an infrastructure policy expert. “Connected vehicle technology can significantly reduce the number of accidents, improve traffic flow, and even reduce emissions. But it requires a robust and reliable infrastructure – and that means domestically sourced technology.”

Ettifos is already seeing increased interest from state and local governments eager to leverage federal funding and deploy connected vehicle solutions. The company’s Houston facility currently has the capacity to produce up to 50,000 units annually, with plans to expand production as demand increases. Currently employing approximately 150 workers, the company anticipates creating additional jobs to support increased production.

Beyond Compliance: Reshoring and Supply Chain Resilience

While BABA compliance is a significant milestone, the broader implications for U.S. manufacturing and supply chain resilience are equally important. The move towards domestic sourcing is prompting companies to re-evaluate their supply chains, reduce their reliance on foreign suppliers, and invest in domestic manufacturing capabilities.

“We’re seeing a clear trend towards reshoring and nearshoring,” observes a manufacturing economist. “Companies are realizing the risks associated with relying on global supply chains, and they’re looking for ways to bring production closer to home.”

This shift is not without its challenges. Domestic labor costs are generally higher than those in many foreign countries. But companies are finding ways to mitigate these costs through automation, advanced manufacturing techniques, and strategic partnerships.

Competitive Landscape: Ettifos Stakes Its Claim

Ettifos isn’t the only player in the C-V2X market. Companies like Qualcomm, Renesas, and Harman International are also vying for market share. However, none of these competitors have yet achieved full BABA compliance.

“Ettifos has a clear first-mover advantage,” notes a technology analyst. “They’re positioned to capture a significant share of the market as federal funding flows and states and local governments prioritize domestically sourced technology.”

While the competition is fierce, Ettifos’ commitment to domestic manufacturing and its early compliance with BABA regulations are giving it a competitive edge. The company’s $12 million Series B funding round provides a solid financial foundation for continued innovation and expansion.

Looking Ahead

The deployment of connected vehicle technology is still in its early stages. But as the technology matures and the infrastructure expands, it has the potential to transform the way we travel. Ettifos’ commitment to domestic manufacturing and its compliance with BABA regulations are paving the way for a safer, smarter, and more resilient transportation future.

“This is about more than just building better roads,” says a source within the Department of Transportation. “It’s about investing in the future of American manufacturing and securing our nation’s economic competitiveness.”