Former Intel Exec to Head American Center for Mobility

The American Center for Mobility (ACM) has hired Michael Noblett, who had been an executive at Intel Corp., as CEO and president of its test site for autonomous and connected vehicles in Ypsilanti Township, Mich.

He succeeds Kirk Steudle, who served as ACM’s interim CEO since John Maddox’s departure last summer. Maddox now is senior director of autonomous safety and compliance for ride-hailing specialist Lyft Inc.

Noblett most recently was Intel's automotive sales head. He previously worked in engineering and executive positions at IBM and General Motors. At ACM, he will manage the strategy and direction for the proving grounds and help accelerate the center's development.

Mark Chaput will oversee ACM’s day-to-day operations. He recently was promoted to chief operating officer from vice president of operations and construction. Jeff Rupp, who joined the team in May, is now the chief technical and safety officer.

Opened in late 2017, the 500-acre complex includes low- and high-speed test tracks and zones that simulate urban, residential and commercial areas for four-season testing. Among the recent additions is a corridor to replicate bicycle and pedestrian traffic.