Senator Stabenow Touts Resurgence of American Auto Industry at North American International Auto Show Press Preview
U.S. Senator Debbie Stabenow, Co-Chair of the Bipartisan Senate Manufacturing Caucus, today discussed how the resurgence of the American auto industry is helping to grow our economy at the North American International Auto Show Press Preview. Stabenow also continued her call to expand Michigan's global leadership in advanced vehicle technologies while touring vehicle exhibits for Chrysler, Ford, and GM. Sen. Stabenow championed the auto rescue and has led the effort to boost the production of advanced batteries and cutting-edge vehicle technologies here in Michigan.
On Sunday, Stabenow recognized the accomplishments women have made in the automotive industry at the 17th annual Urban Wheel Awards. Stabenow presented Chrysler and General Motors with the "Company of the Year Urban Wheel Awards." The official multicultural event of North American International Auto Show, the Urban Wheel Awards brings together celebrities, executives, international media, and government representatives to celebrate diversity in the automotive industry.
Senator Stabenow said: "When we make things here and grow things here, we create jobs here in Michigan. Our economic recovery is being fueled by the resurgence of our American auto industry, which is adding thousands of new jobs. This year's auto show is one of the largest ever and is a testament to the cutting-edge businesses, engineering talent, skilled workers, and world-class colleges and universities that together are transforming our auto industry and helping Michigan compete and win in the global economy. It's absolutely critical that Michigan continue to lead in clean energy innovation, so we can ensure the advanced vehicle technologies are being made here in Michigan."
In November, Stabenow announced that two new advanced battery research facilities will be located in Michigan, one at Michigan State University's Bio-economy Institute in Holland and one on the University of Michigan's campus in Ann Arbor. Sen. Stabenow authored legislation to create new coordinated national battery research facilities that bring university and private sector research efforts together to develop new battery technologies. These technologies will create new products that spur economic growth and reduce the nation's dependence on foreign oil. The legislation created a national competition of applicants vying to house new advanced battery facilities. Stabenow then partnered with the MEDC to coordinate a coalition of Michigan universities and businesses from across the state (with Argonne National Laboratory) to participate in and win the competition. For more information, click here.
