On December 6, 2024, the Michigan Alliance for Greater Mobility Advancement (MAGMA) Advisory Council, convened by the Workforce Intelligence Network (WIN), hosted an impactful session focused on the transition from internal combustion engines (ICEs) to battery electric vehicles (BEVs). The event addressed the regulatory landscape shaping automotive design, manufacturing, and safety and explored Michigan’s leadership role in advancing EV technology and workforce development.
Opening Remarks
Michele Economou Ureste, Executive Director of WIN, welcomed attendees and introduced Paul Corbett, Director of Government and Community Affairs at MichAuto, who moderated the session.
Driving EV Innovation
Alan Taub, Director of the University of Michigan Electric Vehicle Center (EVC), opened the discussion with a deep dive into the critical factors enabling the transition to BEVs:
- Clean Energy Production: Essential for powering BEVs sustainably.
- Robust Charging Infrastructure: Challenges include installation at homes and workplaces, requiring collaboration between utility companies, charging providers, and other stakeholders.
- Cost Reduction: Advances in battery technology are making EVs more accessible and appealing to consumers. Click here to view the slide deck.
Taub emphasized the importance of Michigan and the United States leading this transition, highlighting ongoing efforts at the EVC:
- Research and Development: The EVC’s work on advancing battery engineering and integrated motor power electronics is pushing EV technology forward.
- Workforce Education: Programs like a fast-tracked master’s degree in battery engineering and hands-on training courses prepare workers for the evolving automotive landscape.
- Infrastructure Growth: A new facility at U-M will support research, training, and partnerships with industry stakeholders.
Navigating Regulatory Challenges
Dan Bowerson, Vice President of Energy and Environment Policy at the Alliance for Automotive Innovation, provided an overview of the complex regulatory environment:
- Federal and State Standards: Federal rules for greenhouse gas emissions, criteria emissions, and fuel economy, alongside California’s Zero Emission Vehicle (ZEV) mandate, require manufacturers to adapt quickly.
- California’s Leadership: The ZEV mandate, requiring a percentage of vehicles sold in the state to be electric, is influencing other states and reshaping market priorities.
- Federal Incentives: Bowerson discussed incentives for EV charging infrastructure and the challenges of meeting regulatory standards while navigating differing state and federal requirements.
-
Alliance for Automotive Innovation exclusive state-by-state analysis of the U.S. electric vehicle (EV) market for Q2 2024. View the Get Connected: Electric Vehicle Quarterly Report 2024 (Q2)
Key Themes
- The transition to BEVs requires a holistic approach that integrates innovation, workforce development, and regulatory compliance.
- Collaboration between government, industry, and educational institutions is essential to overcoming challenges in charging infrastructure, cost, and regulatory adaptation.
- Michigan is positioned to lead the way through initiatives like the U-M Electric Vehicle Center and its partnerships with OEMs and suppliers.
This MAGMA meeting highlighted the importance of aligning technology, workforce development, and policy to ensure a successful shift to a sustainable, electric mobility future.
MAGMA Advisory Council Meetings are held quarterly. Topics rotate per meeting and are initiated by the MAGMA Governing Board. Most meetings are recorded, and all presentations are posted on the MiAutomobility.org website. For additional information about MAGMA, please email info@winintelligence.org.
Twitter