New report makes recommendations to ensure state remains global leader in 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 innovative vehicle technology and future mobility solutions. The report contains 2025 accomplishments, analysis and recommendations for public policies and investments necessary to implement the MI Future Mobility Plan.

“As Michigan drives forward as a global leader in next-generation mobility and transportation technologies, the Michigan Council on Future Mobility and Electrification is lighting the path ahead,” said Michigan Department of Labor and Economic Opportunity Director and CFME Chair Susan Corbin. “By bringing together government, industry, academia and local communities, we are working tirelessly to create bold opportunities for the future of mobility in Michigan — strengthening our infrastructure, supporting our workforce and building an ecosystem where innovation thrives. Their work is helping create a future where mobility is accessible, sustainable and a powerful engine for economic prosperity for all.”

Key accomplishments include:

• Issuing four recommendations: create a statewide mobility management network, launch a Michigan Hydrogen Collaborative, grow the critical-energy-equipment supply chain and develop a statewide transit plan.
• Providing data, insights and comparative analyses to inform and support a major transportation funding package replacing sales tax on fuel with a motor-fuel tax, adding nearly $2 billion annually for roads through council engagement in the 2026 budget process. Key mobility items included: historic levels of transit, rail capital and operating funds, $7.6 million for a road-user-charge study and $5.3 million for maritime/port funding.

“2025 has been a transformative year for Michigan’s mobility future,” said Justine Johnson, Michigan’s Chief Mobility Officer. “The launch of the Michigan Advanced Air Mobility (AAM) Initiative underscored our commitment to innovation across land, water, and air. The Council on Future Mobility and Electrification continues to lead with policy-driven strategies that accelerate technology adoption, strengthen infrastructure, and prepare our workforce for the next era of mobility. By aligning the private and public sectors, along with academia, we’re ensuring Michigan remains a global mobility hub that drives innovation and economic growth for decades to come.”

The recommendations, panel discussions, analyses and research initiatives from the CFME are crafted by their 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 offers 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.

“Michigan continues to be a leader in mobility innovations, improving safety and efficiency of travel for residents across our great state,” said Michigan Department of Transportation State Transportation (MDOT) Director Bradley C. Wieferich. “MDOT officials appreciate the support of the Office of Future Mobility and Electrification (OFME) and other partners in delivering a safe and reliable transportation system for all modes of travel.”

“The Michigan Council on Future Mobility and Electrification is helping drive a cleaner, smarter, and more connected transportation future for our state,” said Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy Director Phil Roos. “By advancing technologies that reduce emissions and improve efficiency, CFME is not only supporting Michigan’s leadership in mobility innovation but also helping us meet the ambitious climate goals outlined in the MI Healthy Climate Plan. This work is focused on creating good-paying jobs, strengthening our economy, lowering costs, and ensuring Michigan remains at the forefront of sustainable transportation.” 

“Through the Council on Future Mobility and Electrification, we find a common ground for industry, governmental partners, and stakeholders to engage in dialogue" said Emily Frascaroli, Global Director, Automotive Safety Office, Ford Motor Company. “This collective engagement helps guide Michigan's path toward its mobility aspirations.”

“Michigan has always defined what comes next in mobility,” said Clean Fuels Michigan Executive Director Jane McCurry. “These recommendations reflect the practical steps we need to take today to stay ahead by strengthening our energy supply chain, accelerating innovation in EVs and hydrogen, and making sure every community can benefit from modern transportation solutions.”

“The CFME continues to bring industry, government, labor and academia together to strengthen our mobility systems and secure Michigan’s leadership in this space,” said Judd Herzer, Director of Mobility Research and Innovation at Michigan State University. “MSU Mobility is proud to be part of the CFME’s collaborative effort, which aligns with our multi-college, interdisciplinary approach to drive innovation, grow Michigan’s economy and prepare future mobility leaders.”

“As the machines that move people and goods on land, sea and air transition to innovative propulsion systems, it is critical that Michigan leads in that transformation,” said University of Michigan Electric Vehicle Center Director Alan Taub. “The CFME provides a forum where government, industry and academia can align on important recommendations toward that goal.”

Gov. Whitmer created the CFME under LEO in 2020. The Council serves in an advisory capacity to LEO, OFME, other state agencies, the governor, and the legislature, providing recommendations on mobility policy. To ensure Michigan continues to be a world leader in future mobility and electrification, the Council acts as a key enabler of the MI Future Mobility Plan and a resource for state policy makers by bringing together government, industry and academic stakeholders.

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