Gov. Snyder Brings Michigan’s Mobility Leadership to Washington Auto Show

Governor Rick Snyder is at the Washington Auto Show today highlighting Michigan’s leadership in the automotive industry overall, and mobility in particular.

LANSING, Mich. – After elevating Michigan as the world leader in mobility at both the North American International Auto Show in Detroit and the Consumer Electronics Show in Las Vegas earlier this month, Governor Rick Snyder is at the Washington Auto Show today highlighting Michigan’s leadership in the automotive industry overall, and mobility in particular.

Snyder will keynote the Washington Automotive Press Association Breakfast that serves as the opening event of Media Day at the DC Auto Show and participate in a Politico Live panel discussion looking at different approaches to autonomous vehicle regulation and how states and the federal government can work in tandem to regulate a new era of driving.

“Michigan is committed to embracing the future of mobility while building an ecosystem where business, research and entrepreneurship can thrive and shape the next transportation frontier,” Snyder said. “Just as we are leading the way in testing and R&D, we are also at the forefront of putting in place the policies that will serve as incubators for this critical industry.”

In addition to Governor Snyder’s keynote and panel discussion, U.S. Senator Gary Peters, Michigan Department of Transportation Director Kirk Steudle and John Maddox, President and CEO of The American Center for Mobility participated in panels as part of Washington Auto Show MobilityTalks International® -- a forum designed for governments from around the world to exchange ideas on best practices related to the emerging trends in transportation surrounding connected and autonomous vehicles.

The PlanetM initiative will be a key topic in the conversations around mobility Michigan will lead during the Washington Auto Show. While Michigan leads the way with progressive autonomous vehicle legislation and strategic investments in vehicle testing sites, the state is continuing its legacy as an innovator in transportation with PlanetM, a partnership of mobility organizations, communities, educational institutions, research and development, and government agencies that are working together to develop and deploy the mobility technologies driving the future.

While in Washington, D.C., Governor Snyder will also help to recognize Keith Crain, chairman of Crain Communications and editor-in-chief of Automotive News who will receive the Washington Auto Show Lifetime Achievement award at an event Thursday evening.

“As an informed, critical and fair observer of how decisions and economic policies of government play a dynamic role in supporting business investment and job creation, Keith’s insights and wisdom are appreciated throughout the Michigan business community and the automotive world,” Snyder said.

About Michigan Economic Development Corporation (MEDC)

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