A recent report shows electric vehicles have vast potential for the state of Michigan, both from an economic and environmental standpoint.
The report suggests Michigan will see billions of dollars in economic benefits if electric vehicles become more commonplace.
It shows a moderate estimate of of 18 percent autonomous vehicle use by 2050 and a high estimate of more than 55 percent usage by 2050.
Brian Jones is the senior vice president of M.J. Bradley & Associates, who conducted the study.
“Our analysis found that the net benefits from greater electric vehicle use in Michigan could exceed $31 billion statewide by 2050. This breaks down to $2.6 billion for electricity customers in the form of reduced electric bills, $23.1 billion in savings from Michigan drivers in the form of reduced annual vehicle operating costs, and $5.7 billion in societal benefits for reduced emissions.”
Joe Halso is an Associate Attorney with the Sierra Club. He said health benefits will go hand in hand with financial benefits.
“In 2016 for the first time transportation emissions overtook power production as the largest force of carbon pollution, and more over hundreds of Michiganders die each year as a result of dirty vehicle emissions. According to our report by 2050 electric vehicles could reduce annual greenhouse gas emissions by as much as 7.7 million tons.”
Halso said government, private sector and utilities need to work together to create policies and investment strategies to support the changing technology.
A link to the report can be found by clicking here.