The South Australian government will allocate $10 million worth of grants to entice researchers and businesses to get involved in its autonomous vehicle industry.

The R&D grants will be distributed over the next three years as an incentive for autonomous technology producers to bring their business to Adelaide and its surrounds.

The government is aiming to become a Southern Hemisphere hub for the development of driverless vehicles following the recent demise of traditional car manufacturing in the state.

The driverless vehicle industry is expected to be worth $90 billion globally by 2030.

Earlier this year South Australia became the first state to legalise controlled testing of driverless cars on the state’s roads.

South Australia is already home to driverless technology manufacturers like Cohda Wireless, SAGE Automation and Sydac, but is looking to expand the industry.

Creative proposals

SA Transport and Infrastructure Minister Stephen Mullighan said the Government will invite companies, industry bodies, research institutions and other organisations to submit creative proposals focusing on autonomous vehicle testing and demonstrations, as well as on connected vehicle-to-vehicle and vehicle-to-infrastructure pilots and demonstrations.

All projects must take place in South Australia, but overseas-based partners can partner with local small to medium enterprises, universities and other organisations.

“As the demand on our roads continues to grow, it’s vital that we look for more efficient ways to move traffic around the State,” Mr Mullighan said.

“Getting our state involved early will open up new opportunities for South Australian businesses and our economy."

Grant applications will open on November 14.