Michigan Governor Jennifer Granholm on the Future of Manufacturing in Michigan

Michigan Governor Jennifer Granholm believes that the state's manufacturing sector is undergoing a transformation, driven by the transition to electric vehicles and alternative energy. The Governor stated that the production of lithium-ion battery packs for the Chevrolet Volt at General Motors' new battery plant in Brownstown Township is a significant step towards reinventing Michigan's economy.

Key Takeaways:

The General Motors battery plant in Brownstown Township, Michigan is set to begin production of lithium-ion battery packs for the Chevrolet Volt, marking a significant milestone in the state's efforts to diversify its economy.
The plant is expected to employ at least 100 workers initially, but the Governor's office anticipates that the entire battery value chain will create 40,000 jobs in the state by 2020.
Michigan Governor Jennifer Granholm has been a strong advocate for turning the state's economy around by focusing on sectors such as alternative energy, homeland security, defense, life sciences, and advanced manufacturing.
The Governor cited the state's manufacturing DNA and expertise as key strengths in achieving energy independence and creating new job opportunities.
The Chevrolet Volt, which has a predicted range of 230 miles to the gallon, is a symbol of Michigan's commitment to cutting-edge innovation and sustainability.

Statistics:

40,000 jobs are expected to be created in Michigan by 2020 through the battery value chain (Source: Governor Jennifer Granholm).
Michigan lost over 400,000 auto jobs in the last 10 years (Source: Governor Jennifer Granholm).
The General Motors battery plant will employ at least 100 workers initially (Source: Phil LeBeau, CNBC).

Sources:

CNBC "Squawk on the Street" interview with Michigan Governor Jennifer Granholm (Date: Thursday, January 7, 2010).