Experts Testify Before House Energy Committee on Electric Vehicles

The Michigan Energy Innovation Business Council (Michigan EIBC)and Clean Fuels Michigantoday testified before the House Energy Policy Committee detailing ongoing efforts to advance alternative fuel vehicles in Michigan. They were joined by officials from General Motorsand the Council on Future Mobility.

This was the second hearing on this topic before the House Energy Policy Committee organized by Representative Bellino. Liesl Clark, President of Michigan EIBC, testified at the first hearing on March 13, 2018, along with Michigan Public Service Commissioner Norm Saari and representatives from Ford Motor Company, DTE Energy, and Consumers Energy. Experts at both hearings highlighted the connection between autonomous and electric vehicle technology as well as Michigan’s unique position to be a leader on developing electric vehicle policy.

“Vehicle electrification is the backbone of autonomous and connected vehicle technologies and necessary for the development of the advanced mobility marketplace,” said Mike Alaimoexecutive director of Clean Fuels Michigan. “As utility companies, regulators and automakers continue to blaze the trail for electric vehicles in Michigan, it will be up to lawmakers in Lansing to maintain the momentum for success.”Since August, 2017, the Michigan Public Service Commission has held two public events to help guide policy decisions in preparation of electric vehicle usage growth in Michigan. An essential goal of the conferences is to provide guidance for utility companies as they develop EV charging pilot programs. Michigan EIBC is also holding ongoing stakeholder meetings to discuss critical issues surrounding EV deployment in Michigan including the utility pilot programs, consumer awareness, charging infrastructure, and fleet electrification.

“Michigan is well-positioned to lead in the autonomous, electrified transportation future. Our automakers, utilities, battery manufacturers, corporations, and policy makers are working together toward that future,,” said Liesl Clark, president of Michigan EIBC. “The Public Service Commission’s proactive approach to guiding utility involvement in electric vehicle charging will help position Michigan for success as we anticipate accelerated growth of autonomous and electric vehicles. We look forward to working with lawmakers as they consider policies around electric vehicles to help keep Michigan a leader in mobility and advanced transportation.”