Today, Michigan Congresswoman Haley Stevens (MI-11), alongside Congresswoman Debbie Dingell (MI-6), introduced the Shifting Forward Vehicle Technologies Research and Development Act, a bold effort to keep Michigan at the forefront of the next generation of automotive innovation and manufacturing.

As the global auto industry shifts toward connected and advanced vehicle technologies, Stevens’ legislation invests in the research, workforce, and infrastructure needed to ensure Michigan workers and manufacturers continue to lead the world.

“Michigan put the word on wheels, and we are going to lead the auto industry’s future,” said Rep. Stevens. “This bill is about protecting good-paying jobs, strengthening our supply chains, and making sure the next generation of vehicles is designed, engineered, and built right here in Michigan.”

“Innovation has always defined the American auto industry, and that must remain the case as we confront the climate crisis. This bill invests in the research and development needed to improve vehicle efficiency, strengthen domestic supply chains, and produce cutting-edge clean vehicle technology. It empowers American workers, companies, and inventors, and will help ensure that Michigan and the United States continue to lead the world in automotive innovation,” said Congresswoman Dingell. 

Specifically, the Shifting Forward Vehicle Technologies Research and Development Act:

• Advances next generation vehicle technologies. Advances batteries, electrification, alternative fuels, hydrogen, materials, and connected vehicle technologies to improve vehicle efficiency, performance, and overall competitiveness.
• Strengthens security, safety, and system performance. Expands efforts on cybersecurity, physical security, and energy storage safety, while supporting tools and mobility systems that improve transportation energy efficiency.
• Builds workforce and expands technical capacity. Establishes Centers of Excellence and advisory structures to develop a skilled workforce, support graduate research, and ensure expert guidance across DOE programs.
• Supports deployment, coordination, and infrastructure. Provides technical assistance to state, local, and Tribal governments, addresses alternative fuel infrastructure challenges, and enhances coordination across federal agencies to strengthen supply chains and national competitiveness.

“Auto Innovators thanks Rep. Stevens for reintroducing the Shifting Forward Vehicle Technologies Research and Development Act and her commitment to American innovation,” said John Bozzella, president and CEO of Alliance for Automotive Innovation. “This is a smart strategy to leverage government R&D resources to develop the transformative transportation, infrastructure, and fuel innovations that will help define next-generation mobility.”

“The rise of electric vehicles and other forms of clean transportation provides us with the opportunity to make the U.S. a global leader in innovation and manufacturing—but only if we seize this moment and ensure that the transportation technologies and fuels of tomorrow are made here in America. The Shifting Forward Vehicle Technologies Research and Development Act will do just that, providing critical federal funding to help us unlock new vehicle technologies and train up the next generation of scientists and engineers,” said Ryan Fitzpatrick, Vice President of the Climate and Energy Program at Third Way. “Third Way applauds Congresswoman Stevens for her leadership, and we look forward to continuing to work with her to put American workers, universities, and manufacturers front and center of the American economy.”