Automotive & Manufacturing
23 storiesCoverage includes industry analysis, plant and company updates, workforce reporting and policy explainers. Stories connect production decisions, supplier conditions, investment, technology shifts and labor effects so readers can see how a change at one company or facility may reach Michigan jobs and the broader manufacturing network.
Michigan Auto Body Shops Build a New Statewide Voice
The Michigan Auto Body Association launched Sept. 21, 2026, and is seeking founding members and legislative influence. In Omaha, two CARSTAR shops helped Picotte Elementary raise more than $30,000 for school programs.
Planet Oil Change Centers plans Farmington Hills shop for 2027, but city records show no official approval yet
Planet Oil Change Centers says it will open a new shop at 22412 Middlebelt Road in Farmington Hills in spring 2027. But so far, there's no sign of city permits or official approval for the project.
University of Michigan greenlights $26M Lay Auto Lab overhaul
The University of Michigan will spend $26 million to modernize the Walter E. Lay Automotive Engineering Laboratory, expanding its electric vehicle and battery research by winter 2028.
General Motors to bring smart transformer tech to Romulus plant
GM will install IONATE's Hybrid Intelligent Transformer at its Romulus facility. The goal: better power quality and stronger energy resilience as the plant's electricity needs grow.
Michigan Moves to Take Over Carbon Capture Project Permitting
Michigan lawmakers are pushing to shift oversight of underground carbon storage wells from the federal government to the state, hoping to speed up approvals, attract private investment, and support jobs in manufacturing and energy.
Marel Power Solutions gets Michigan grant for EV power stack pilot line
Marel Power Solutions in Plymouth has received $1.9 million from the Michigan Supplier Conversion Grant Program to set up a pilot production line for electric vehicle power stacks, expanding local manufacturing.
Michigan Governor Visits Taiwan to Strengthen Tech and Talent Ties
Governor Gretchen Whitmer led a Michigan delegation to Taiwan, meeting with local leaders and university alumni to discuss new opportunities for trade, technology, and workforce development between Michigan and Taiwan.
GM to Install Smart Transformer System at Romulus Plant
General Motors plans to bring IONATE's Hybrid Intelligent Transformer to its Romulus, Michigan plant, aiming to improve power quality and manage rising electricity demand at the facility.
Michigan Awards $1.5 Million for Clean Transportation Pilots
Ten Michigan projects will split $1.5 million to test hydrogen fuel, EV charging, and mobility tech in real-world conditions as part of the state's push to modernize transportation and infrastructure.
North Carolina and Michigan fund new EV charging and hydrogen projects
North Carolina and Michigan have announced millions in new grants for electric vehicle charging and clean mobility projects, including hydrogen fuel cell trucks and fast charging sites. Construction and deployment are set to ramp up over the next three years.
Mazda Test Drive Events to Support Local High School Programs
Three metro Detroit Mazda dealerships will hold test drive fundraisers in September, offering up to $10,000 per event for athletic and science programs at four area high schools.
Knam Industries announces $10 million plant in Plymouth, but local confirmation lacking
Knam Industries International says it is opening a $10 million facility in Plymouth, Michigan, with plans to hire over 100 skilled workers by 2027 and invest further in manufacturing technology. As of now, local and regional officials have not confirmed the project or its details.
Michigan Faces New Global Pressure in Automotive Investment Decisions
Michigan is now competing with regions in the South, Mexico, Europe and China for automotive projects as companies weigh costs, speed and site readiness before investing in new or existing facilities
Michigan State University to Lead New National Turbulence Research Center
A $30 million National Science Foundation grant will fund the TEMPEST Science and Technology Center at Michigan State University, aiming to advance turbulence research with AI, computation and hands-on experiments starting in 2026
Canada Imposes New Tariffs Targeting Michigan Exports and Jobs
Canada's latest tariffs on U.S. goods have taken effect, directly threatening Michigan's manufacturing, agriculture and small businesses as the state's largest export customer responds to U.S. trade actions
Michigan Auto Industry Faces Higher Costs After Canadian Tariffs
New Canadian tariffs on US goods have driven up costs for Michigan automakers and suppliers, with immediate effects on profits and operations as cross-border trade becomes more expensive
Michigan Faces Job Shortages as Unemployment Remains High
Michigan's unemployment rate is now among the highest in the nation as the state's manufacturing sector contracts and job seekers outnumber available positions. A new report details the growing competition for work and the challenges facing residents
Michigan Lawmaker Pushes for Federal Support to Upgrade State Ports
State Rep. Donni Steele met with U.S. Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy to advocate for new investment in Michigan's ports and shipbuilding sector, highlighting the need for infrastructure upgrades and workforce development to keep the state competitive
Michigan Lawmaker Pushes for Federal Support to Upgrade State Ports
State Rep. Donni Steele met with U.S. Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy to advocate for new investment in Michigan's ports and shipbuilding sector, highlighting the need for infrastructure upgrades and workforce development to keep the state competitive
Michigan EV Charging Expansion Leaves Low Income Residents Behind
Michigan is rapidly adding electric vehicle charging stations but a new study finds that many low income households remain unable to benefit from the transition due to affordability and home infrastructure barriers
US-Canada Trade Dispute Raises Tariffs and Uncertainty for Businesses
The United States and Canada have imposed new tariffs on each other's goods, escalating a trade dispute that could impact $20 billion in imports and key industries. Both governments say they are prepared for further action if negotiations fail.
Waymo Approved to Expand Driverless Rides in 18 California Counties
Waymo has received state approval to expand its driverless passenger service across 18 California counties, including new areas in the Bay Area, but has not yet announced when rides will begin in the newly authorized locations
Michigan Lawmaker Proposes Guardrails for Data Center Expansion
A Michigan House representative is urging the state to adopt clear rules for new data centers, focusing on land use, water, electricity, and noise, as Michigan seeks to attract AI-driven industry while protecting local resources.