April 18, 20007

MEDC's Epolito joins governor for meetings with auto suppliers, alternative energy executives

LANSING - Governor Jennifer M. Granholm today met with major OEM and automotive supplier executives as part of the four-day Society for Automotive Engineers World Congress conference in Detroit.  The governor was joined by Michigan Economic Development Corporation (MEDC) President and CEO James C. Epolito and, together, they made the case for companies to make new investments in Michigan that will lead to jobs for workers in the state.
 
Granholm noted the theme for this year's event - "Engineering for Global Sustainable Mobility - It's Up to Us"- is a perfect fit for Michigan's engineering and alternative energy leadership.
 
"Michigan has always been the home of innovation, and we are proud to continue to partner with the greatest minds in the automotive industry to develop the next generation of alternative fuel design, sustainable materials, and manufacturing processes," Granholm said.  "We want to get the word out on all the exciting new developments taking place here in the state and encourage further job-creating investments."
 
During a tour of the show floor today, Granholm and Epolito spoke with top corporate officials of AVL, DaimlerChrysler, FEV, Ford, General Motors, IAV, Toyota, Swedish-based industrial polymer conglomerate Trelleborg, and others, including TACOM-TARDEC.
 
The governor also congratulated Keihin executives on yesterday's announcement that the Japan-based company will locate a new, $22 million manufacturing facility in St. Clair County. 
 
Michigan is working aggressively to attract alternative energy development in the state through the $2 billion 21st Century Jobs Fund, an aggressive business marketing campaign, and by offering new incentives to encourage Michigan companies to develop and produce technologies that will lead to the next generation of cleaner and more fuel-efficient vehicles.
 
"This is the perfect venue for us to showcase Michigan's auto R&D and alternative energy strengths," Epolito said.  "We met with the decision-makers to make the best possible case for investment in the state."

Comprehensive information about Michigan's SAE booth and outreach is available on the MEDC Website at www.michigan.org/sae2007.
 
The Michigan Economic Development Corporation, a partnership between the state and local communities, promotes smart economic growth by developing strategies and providing services to create and retain good jobs and a high quality of life.  For more information on MEDC initiatives and programs, visit the Web site at www.michigan.org.

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