Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer has announced plans to build a new electric vehicle road trip circuit around Lake Michigan, creating new electric vehicle charging infrastructure at key points to connect EV drivers with shoreline, lighthouses, parks, local businesses, and other attractions.
Per a recent report from The Detroit News, Whitmer announced the details of the new electric vehicle circuit during a press conference at the Detroit Regional Chamber’s Mackinac Policy Conference. Funding for the new charging infrastructure will come from the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes and Energy program, with initial costs amounting to $1.25 million.
During the recent press conference, Whitmer characterized the new circuit as “the best new road trip for electric vehicle owners in America.”
“The circuit is going to entice residents and travelers to explore our incredible coastal communities and amenities while using clean energy, cutting pollution and helping to protect our air and water,” Whitmer said.
Announcement of the new electric vehicle circuit arrives as the Whitmer administration makes a push to classify Michigan as a leader in electric vehicle manufacturing. Part of the push involves new plans for job training to prepare the state workforce for positions in EV manufacturing. The new job training plans are expected to include an investment totaling as much as $5 million.
Prior to announcement of the new electric vehicle circuit, Whitmer announced during the Motor Bella auto show in Pontiac that a one-mile section of Michigan roadway would offer wireless charging capabilities, enabling EVs to recharge while driving. The electrified roadway will be in Wayne, Oakland, or Macomb counties.
Earlier this year, Indiana announced a similar proposal to construct an inductive charging highway of its own. The Indiana proposal includes a partnership with Purdue University, and would include magnetized concrete produced by the German company Magment GmbH. The project will include testing and analysis by Purdue University prior to construction on public roadways.
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Comments
Meanwhile Ford announces that it is building a multi-billion dollar battery and EV mfg center in Kentucky.
Why? Because Michigan government spends state resources on small things like putting EV chargers on a few select roads in the state instead of addressing the big picture business reasons why Ford and other companies actively pursue locating new operations outside the state.
Why again?? Because the UAW embezzled millions in training $ and the state government is still in bed with them because of the union political donations. UAW members remained untrained.
This little EV road project is just a political stunt meant to divert attention from the continuing failures of the State of MI and the UAW in adapting to a changing industry.