NAIAS Showcases Technology Helping to Transform Michigan's Economy .(MP3- 3MB)

NAIAS Showcases Technology Helping to Transform Michigan's Economy Granholm Appoints Emergency Financial Advisory Panel to offer Recommendations on State's Fiscal Crisis Granholm Signs Legislation to Strengthen Long-Term Care in Michigan Granholm Promotes Michigan's R&D and Alternative Energy Innovation at Auto Show

photo courtesy of the NAIAS

If you have the chance, I encourage every Michigan citizen to visit the 100th North American International Auto Show (NAIAS) in Detroit. It is truly an amazing experience to see first-hand some of the exciting advances being made by our automotive industry that will help transform Michigan's economy.

A primary focus of my economic plan is to make sure the next generation of technology development – hybrid engines, biofuels, and fuel cell technology – are designed and produced right here in the Great Lakes State, creating jobs for Michigan workers. Thanks to our rich automotive history, Michigan is perfectly positioned to lead the nation's efforts to develop alternative energies that will end our dependence on foreign oil.

photo courtesy of the NAIAS

You will also want to stop by the state's economic development booth that highlights 12 high-tech companies in Michigan. Many companies, including Adaptive Materials of Ann Arbor, FANUC Robotics in Rochester Hills, and Noble Polymers in Grand Rapids, have already chosen to create jobs in Michigan because of our outstanding workforce and competitive business climate.

With more than 275 automotive R&D engineering and tech centers calling Michigan home, the state is already the automotive R&D capital of the world. But we are continuing to work aggressively to bring additional high tech research and development companies to Michigan. As part of this effort, a portion of the $2 billion 21st Century Jobs Fund is targeted for this growing sector.

The North American International Auto Show runs through Sunday, January 21 in Detroit’s COBO Conference/Exhibition Center. Click here for more information.

photo courtesy of the NAIAS