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OFME | Michigan Mobility and Electrification Report Mid-August 2023

ofme-230 CroppedFresh Coast Maritime Challenge Launches to Support E-boat and Charging Deployments at Michigan Marinas

Michigan announced the first-ever cohort of maritime grant recipients to support the state’s Fresh Coast Corridor.
OFME-url-1

Six companies will receive $506,000 in total grant funding to establish what will become an evolving network of shore-side charging facilities for clean-fueled marine vessels and electric passenger vehicles operating on the Great Lakes.

Grant recipients include:

  • Arc, a California-based electric boat manufacturer, will receive $20,000 to conduct technology demos and demonstrate the disruptive potential of high-performance EV boats.
  • Aqua superPower will receive $111,000 to install fast marine chargers and conduct technology demos at Michigan-based marinas, including Duncan Clinch Marina in Traverse City, the Village of Charlevoix Marina, and Harbor Springs.
  • Hercules Electric Mobility will receive $75,000 to develop and deploy boats with high-power electric powertrains and conduct user demonstrations and data collections on consumer acceptance of electric boating and charging with mobile marine charging systems.
  • Lilypad Labs will receive $135,000 to deploy highly accessible, solar-powered watercraft for public use at marinas and resorts across Northwest Michigan.
  • Michigan Technological University will receive $50,000 for its faculty and students to create a playbook in partnership with local utilities and marinas that will determine how far individuals can travel from their home docks, the optimal distance between charging stations, charging times and costs, as well as how much electrical energy is needed to support a specific number of chargers.
  • Voltaic Marine, Inc, will receive $115,000 to explore and develop Michigan-based strategies focused on advanced manufacturing, battery chemistry, propulsion, and emerging technology job creation.
READ MORE ABOUT THE FRESH COAST MARITIME CHALLENGE

Major Automakers Partner on New EV Charging Network to Rival Tesla

Seven major automakers, including General Motors, Stellantis, Hyundai, Kia, Honda, BMW, and Mercedes-Benz, are coming together to form a new company with the aim of building an extensive network of EV chargers across the U.S. The joint venture, backed by an investment of at least $1 billion from the participants, plans to take advantage of federal subsidies to accelerate the rollout of fast-charging infrastructure and address “range anxiety” for potential EV buyers.

LEARN MORE ABOUT THIS EV CHARGER INVESTMENT

Registration Now Open for Ann Arbor SPARK’s a2Tech360 Conference

Don’t miss your chance to register for this year’s Ann Arbor SPARK a2Tech 360 conference. Taking place from Sept. 14 to 22, this year’s event promises a dynamic lineup featuring a pitch competition, educational workshops, and networking opportunities for tech enthusiasts, industry leaders, and forward-thinking minds. Don’t miss the chance to be a part of this week-long celebration of technology and innovation.

LEARN MORE AND REGISTER

Applications Open for AutoTech Breakthrough Awards
 
 

Applications are now open for the 2023 AutoTech Breakthrough Awards, which recognize the standout companies, products, and services in the global automotive and transportation technology industry. The deadline for nominations is Aug. 11.

 
 
 
 
 
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In the News
 
 

Self-driving Shuttles for Seniors Coming to Detroit | Click on 4 DetroitThe Detroit City Council has approved a $2.5 million contract with May Mobility to provide free self-driving shuttles for people aged 65+ and those with disabilities. The autonomous rides will be available through a mobile app, website, or phone, and will serve as a supplement to the city’s paratransit program.

Michigan Future Mobility Office Names New Leadership | Government TechnologyJustine Johnson has been appointed as the next chief mobility officer for the state of Michigan. In her new role, she will lead the state’s Office of Future Mobility and Electrification (OFME), working to transform the transportation sector and economy by promoting electric and sustainable mobility while encouraging entrepreneur and emerging tech activities.

How Michigan is Driving a Greener Mobility Future | Yahoo! NewsMichigan, known as the car capital of the world, is positioning itself at the forefront of the mobility revolution by leading the transition to electric vehicles (EVs) and clean mobility. The state’s automotive industry, infrastructure, and skilled workforce make it a key player in creating a greener future. Michigan is investing in advanced manufacturing, the battery supply chain, and workforce development to drive sustainable innovation, attract new businesses, and build a robust EV ecosystem.

The Great Inflection Point – A Look Into the Future of Cars | Washington PostFrom the assembly line to the showroom, the automobile industry has been an integral part of modern society for over a century. However, recent developments such as the increasing demand for electric and autonomous vehicles in a shift towards sustainability have forced the industry to adapt and transform like never before. Only in 2023, electric car sales worldwide are expected to leap by 35%, reaching the all-time record of 14 million.

 
 
 
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