Michigan’s Council on Future Mobility and Electrification makes recommendations to ensure state remains global leader in future of transportation

LANSING, Mich. — The Michigan Council on Future Mobility and Electrification (CFME) released its annual report today detailing a set of key recommendations to help Michigan remain a global leader in automated, driverless and connected vehicle technology. The report contains 2024 accomplishments, analysis and recommendations for public policies and investments necessary to implement the MI Future Mobility Plan.

“2024 will always be remembered as a year of mobility milestones for the state of Michigan and the Council of Future Mobility and Electrification exemplifies our collaborative approach,” said Justine Johnson, Chief Mobility Officer. “The council remains dedicated to identifying comprehensive mobility and clean technologies strategies, addressing challenges with innovative thinking and providing a shared commitment to sustainable progress. By working together throughout the state to lead on these issues, we’re ensuring every mobility business or entrepreneur can make it in Michigan. This year, the CFME put forward four sets of recommendations: prototype readiness to boost the readiness of the startup ecosystem in Michigan, geologic hydrogen feasibility to explore the potential of geologic hydrogen in the state, funding for mobility initiatives and electric vehicle (EV) charging for multifamily residents.”

The recommendations, panel discussions, analyses and research initiatives from the CFME are crafted by its “Action Teams.” These teams, co-led by council members and senior advisors, include participation from industry experts, state agencies and policymakers. Each team focuses on a specific policy area to gain in-depth understanding of the issues and offer actionable recommendations for the CFME to adopt. Through these collaborative efforts, the CFME has built a robust knowledge base on key mobility issues, which serves as a valuable resource for policymakers as they work to keep Michigan at the leading edge of the evolving mobility sectors.

“As we continue propelling Michigan forward as a global leader in the next generation of mobility and transportation technologies, the Michigan Council on Future Mobility and Electrification continues to address some of Michigan’s most critical mobility challenges and advance the state’s mobility ecosystem through improving infrastructure and supporting our workforce,” said Susan Corbin, Michigan Department of Labor and Economic Opportunity Director and CFME chair. “In the past year, council recommendations have led to EV charging and hydrogen infrastructure advancement, fleet transition support, public safety improvements, public transit expansion, enabling startups and supporting our workforce.”

“Officials at the Michigan Department of Transportation embrace innovation to provide safe, efficient mobility for all,” said State Transportation Director Bradley C. Wieferich. “We appreciate the recommendations in this report as we continue a tradition as national leaders in mobility.” 

“Maintaining Michigan's status as a global leader in the auto industry requires consistent commitment to adapting to our mobility needs,” said Matthew Rudnick, Director of Climate, Environment and Energy Policy, General Motors. “The actions summarized in this report help us move forward and provide the world with cleaner transportation built right here in Michigan.” 

“The Council of Future Mobility and Electrification is a collaborative place where industry can come together with key government partners and stakeholders to help move Michigan forward on its electrification goals,” said Emily Frascaroli, Global Director Automotive Safety Office, Ford Motor Company.

"The CFME, aligned with Michigan's Future Mobility Plan and Healthy Climate Plan, continues to craft policy recommendations to keep Michigan at the innovation forefront of future mobility and electrification,” said Derek Caveney, Senior Executive Engineer, Toyota Motor North America. “Toyota is honored to be included within this passionate and diverse group of government, industry, and academia leaders, who are working together towards the adoption of safe and accessible mobility solutions for all Michiganders."

“Michigan's legacy as a global leader in mobility innovation is matched by our commitment to ensuring that leadership benefits everyone,” said Jane McCurry, Executive Director, Clean Fuels Michigan. “This report provides actionable, forward-thinking recommendations to improve access to clean mobility solutions, unlock new economic opportunities, and solidify Michigan's role in shaping the future of transportation. By embracing these policies, we can drive progress that supports Michigan's communities, workforce and industries.”

To learn more about future mobility in Michigan, visit Michiganbusiness.org/ofme.