Detroit Regional Chamber > MICHauto, Partners Lead Effort to Help Automotive and Mobility Companies

MICHauto, Partners Lead Effort to Help Automotive and Mobility Companies

March 25, 2020
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Automotive, business, and government leaders from across Michigan are joining forces with MICHauto to ensure the strength of Michigan’s automotive and mobility industry during the COVID-19 pandemic. MICHauto is taking the lead with our partners to safeguard Michigan’s critical stake in the industry with an automotive synergy task force. The cooperative will take immediate action to marshal resources to support businesses during the crisis.

Getting Ahead of the Curve, Industry Focused Task Force

One of MICHauto’s key pillars is its strategic focus on convening industry stakeholders to help the industry through the crisis. MICHauto put this strength into action by proactively reaching out to stakeholders to leverage resources for Michigan’s automotive and mobility industry.

Joining MICHauto on the task force are the Center for Automotive Research (CAR), Original Equipment Suppliers Association (OESA), Michigan Manufacturers Association (MMA), Michigan Economic Development Corp. (MEDC), Michigan Department of Labor and Economic Opportunity (LEO), and Pure Michigan Business Connect (PMBC).

The group meets weekly to discuss immediate action needed such as the manufacturing and supply of health care equipment. Long-term actions will focus on the health and recovery of the automotive and mobility industry.

“CAR is pleased to be part of this synergy task force in order to utilize our vast knowledge base and affiliates in order to fulfill the rapid need of support for our medical community,” said Carla Bailo, president and CEO of CAR. “Fast action is needed to secure the ‘arsenal of health’ for our communities, restore the health of individuals, and support the quick recovery for our economy.”

State and National Leaders Join the Cause

Also involved with the task force is the Michigan Legislative Automotive Caucus, which includes co-chairs Rep. Jim Lilly (R-Park Twp), Sen. Mallory McMorrow (D-Royal Oak), Rep. Joe Tate (D-Detroit), and Sen. Wayne Schmidt (R-Traverse City). The Auto Caucus is dedicated to ensuring Michigan’s business climate remains competitive and supports the state’s global leadership in its signature industry.

The Caucus is also joined by U.S. Rep. Debbie Dingell, U.S. Sen. Gary Peters, and U.S. Rep. Haley Stevens on the task force, bringing a national perspective to the table.

Tele-Town Hall Series to Feature Michael Robinet

As key decisions are made about business operations in preparation for the effects of COVID-19, it’s important to hear from state leaders at the front lines and subject matter experts who can help navigate the risks. The Detroit Regional Chamber is hosting a COVID-19 Tele-Town Hall Series with regular guest speakers to help businesses prepare for the impact of the virus.

Michael Robinet, executive director of Automotive Advisory Services at IHS Markit, will share his insight and advice on the automotive and mobility industry’s navigation of this crisis in a Tele-Town Hall on March 27 at 1 p.m. Robinet will engage in a one-on-one discussion with Glenn Stevens Jr., executive director of MICHauto. Participants will have the option to submit questions to Stevens during the discussion.

Resources for Businesses

MICHauto is providing the latest industry news and resources for automotive and mobility companies during the COVID-19 pandemic. View resources on plant cleaning, potential impact on the industry, crisis management, and more.

Additionally, MICHauto is interested in how your business operations have been impacted by COVID-19 and how you are addressing the impact. Share your feedback in this brief survey to help inform the creation of productive resources.