PHOTOS: Lt. Gov. Gilchrist Visits Battery Show North America, Showcasing Michigan’s Battery, Electric Vehicle Technology Strengths on National Stage

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September 13, 2022

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

September 13, 2022

Contact: [email protected]

PHOTOS: Lt. Gov. Gilchrist Visits Battery Show North America, Showcasing Michigan’s Battery, Electric Vehicle Technology Strengths on National Stage

NOVI, Mich. — Lt. Governor Garlin Gilchrist II visited The Battery Show North America at the Suburban Collection Showplace in Novi today, meeting with key industry leaders, engineers and innovators driving the future of the battery and electric vehicle industries. Starting today through Thursday, September 15, the sold-out show is bringing together more than 800 top-industry suppliers specializing in battery materials, vehicle and component manufacturing, battery assembly, renewable energy systems, protoyping and simulation, and more.

“Michigan’s deep culture of innovation and manufacturing heritage is on display this week as engineers and risk-takers from around the world gather here to define the future of the electric vehicle and battery industry,” said Lt. Governor Gilchrist. “We put the world on wheels over a century ago and today we are proud to lead next evolution of electric vehicles and battery technologies from right here in Michigan.”

Michigan is already home to one-third of the U.S. battery production and home to nearly one-fifth of U.S. auto production – more than any other state in the nation. Additionally, with the first-ever indoor/outdoor Detroit Auto Show also occurring throughout downtown Detroit this week, Michigan remains a clear national and global leader in the future of the automotive and mobility industries.

During today’s programming, Michigan Department of Transportation Director Paul Ajegba joined State of Michigan Policy Strategist Judd Herzer for a fireside chat to discuss how the shift to electrification and charging infrastructure has impacted the automotive industry. With a focus on the importance of forming public/private partnerships, the conversation highlighted how the latest confluence of national electric vehicle and mobility events in Michigan – the Detroit Auto Show also kicks off in downtown Detroit this week – emphasize the state’s critical role in building out the future of an electrified mobility landscape.

“As battery technologies and investments become increasingly competitive around the globe, Michigan remains a key home for opportunity, with a robust supply chain and deeply skilled workforce ready to bring the future to life,” said Trevor Pawl, Chief Mobility Officer for the state of Michigan. “Alongside partners across state government, industry, academia and beyond, the state of Michigan is on its way to enabling a stronger state economy through safer, more equitable and environmentally sound transportation for all.”

“My MDOT colleagues and I remain firmly committed to supporting some of our state’s largest industries as they make the transition from internal-combustion to electric vehicles,” said Michigan Department of Transportation Director Paul Ajegba. “That’s why we are piloting in-pavement, inductive charging and are steadfast in support of a broader electric vehicle charging network across the state.”

In 2022, Michigan has celebrated a series of transformational investments that demonstrate continued industry growth across the automotive and electric vehicle mobility sector, including:

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