Council on Future Mobility and Electrification’s Annual Report Recommends Policy Changes to Ensure Michigan Remains Leader in Global Mobility

Today, the Michigan Council on Future Mobility and Electrification (CFME) released a set of key policy recommendations to help the state remain the global leader in next-generation transportation. The recommendations are featured in the council’s 2023 annual report and are designed to help achieve the goals outlined in Gov. Whitmer’s MI Future Mobility Plan, an actionable road map for Michigan to set new global standards for economic development, workforce, energy and infrastructure.

"While our work is ongoing, collaboration is paramount to our success. The CFME is a testament to this collaborative spirit,” said Justine Johnson, the state’s chief mobility officer and head of the Michigan Office of Future Mobility and Electrification. “The Council is committed to working together to identify opportunities for a holistic approach to mobility and clean technologies in Michigan. Its commitment to addressing challenges with an open mind and finding resolutions drives Michigan toward a cleaner, more sustainable and economically vibrant future.”

The CFME was created by Whitmer in 2020, to ensure Michigan continues to be a world leader in future mobility and electrification, the council brings together government, public and private stakeholders and research institutions to address the challenges associated with the rapidly evolving mobility landscape.

Over the past year, the council put forth recommendations on topics ranging from electric vehicle charging infrastructure, to incentives for low- and zero-emission vehicles, hydrogen fuel incentives, roadway and intersection safety, intelligent transportation systems asset and communication networking mapping and the establishment of a state investment fund for mobility related startups.

This year, the council took on an even more innovative approach to the work, developing seven action teams, each tasked with focusing on specific areas of the MI Future Mobility Plan. The teams developed impactful resolutions that aim to support the startup and scale up of emerging technologies and businesses while creating safer, more equitable and environmentally conscious transportation options for Michiganders.

“Since its inception, the Council has been committed to working across government bodies, industry stakeholders, academic institutions and local communities to fulfill the vision for economic prosperity and mobility for all,” said Susan Corbin, director of the Michigan Department of Labor and Economic Opportunity and chair of the Michigan Council on Future Mobility and Electrification. “CFME is excited to present resolutions in this report and we believe that by acting on them, we can help make our state a place where mobility companies find long-term success and where any person can make it in Michigan.”

"We're proud to work with The Council to advance mobility in Michigan focusing on safety, electrification and innovation,” said Emily Frascaroli, global director, Automotive Safety Office at Ford Motor Company. “This report reflects our collaborative efforts to address the unique challenges and opportunities right here in the birthplace of mobility - and to help build a new era of transportation that is sustainable, equitable and accessible."

"Clean Fuels Michigan is honored to contribute to the collaborative efforts of CFME in shaping Michigan’s future in advanced automotive innovation,” said Jane McCurry, executive director of Clean Fuels Michigan. “The recommendations in this year's report underscore the state's commitment to cleaner forms of mobility and emphasize the pivotal role of strategic policy solutions in creating jobs and fostering ongoing success in our dynamic automotive landscape, driving both technological advancement and economic growth."

"The CFME fosters collaboration among government, industry, and academia to jointly craft policy recommendations for the Governor,” said Derek Caveney, from Toyota Motor North America. “Aligned with the MI Future Mobility Plan, these recommendations drive the adoption of safe and accessible mobility solutions for all Michiganders through future battery-electric, hybrid, and fuel cell technologies. Toyota is honored to be included within this diverse group of thought leaders, collectively shaping Michigan's position in future mobility and electrification. Together, we are driving innovation and propelling sustainable solutions for the benefit of all Michiganders."

The mobility industry in Michigan is undergoing significant transformation. Moving forward, the challenges are many, but the possibilities are limitless. With continued dedication, constructive collaboration and an unwavering commitment to innovation, CFME is set to steer Michigan towards a future where mobility is more sustainable, inclusive and revolutionary than ever before.

To learn more about the Michigan Council on Future Mobility and Electrification and the MI Future Mobility Plan, visit www.michiganbusiness.org/ofme.