Business Leaders Announce Formation of Clean Fuels Michigan

A coalition dedicated to growing a high tech, clean transportation industry in Michigan

LANSING, MI -- Sept. 30, 2015: Nearly 30 leading companies and organizations in Michigan today announced the formation of Clean Fuels Michigan. The new 501(c)(6) organization aims to maintain Michigan's position as a global leader in automotive manufacturing by advancing a clear vision, strategy, and advocacy centered on advanced powertrain technology and innovation. The overall goal is to promote investment, job growth and sustainable technologies in Michigan.

Michigan's leadership position in the automotive industry is well known. It supports more than 513,000 jobs and provides nearly $36 billion in annual earnings. However, dynamic forces are rapidly changing the future of mobility and 37 states have policies to promote alternative fuel vehicles. Michigan is one of the relatively few states with no incentives supporting the purchase of alternative fuel vehicles, which is why we rank 41st out of 50 states in the number of alternative fuel vehicles per capita.

"Michigan must act quickly so that it can capitalize on the developing marketplace and ultimately improve Michigan's overall economic competitiveness," said Chris Milani, Principal of the Rustbelt Group. "There needs to be a favorable policy climate so that Michigan can stay in the game and attract talent and position itself as the innovation leader for clean fuel technology," Milani added.

Clean Fuel Michigan will advance clean fuel neutral policies, such as electric, natural gas, propane and hydrogen fuel cell technology, advise policy makers, and help commercialization efforts.

"Our members collectively believe in economic opportunities that stem from developing this technology and markets in Michigan," commented Eric Clinton, Manager of NGV Business Development at DTE Energy.

Investments in clean alternative fuels will not only provide economic benefits to our communities but result in environmental improvements that are essential to the health and well being of Michigan's citizens.

Additional information about Clean Fuels Michigan may be found at CleanFuelsMichigan.com.