This past week, the national conversation on electric vehicles concentrated on improving charging infrastructure and its challenges. We are continuing to track microchip shortage updates, including how they may or may not have impacted Q1 sales for OEMs and suppliers. We also saw some interesting news in the autonomous vehicle space with large deals and exciting announcements.

The semiconductor shortage impacting the automotive industry has left companies and countries scrambling for solutions.

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MICHauto’s 2021 Capitol Conversations connected industry representatives from OEM’s, suppliers, and service industries with 38 legislators and Gov. Gretchen Whitmer’s office over the weeks of April 19 and 26. MICHauto investors were able to discuss a variety of topics with legislators regarding their priorities and concerns for the industry in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Submit your entries for the automotive industry's only award dedicated to lightweighting and sustainability:

The 2021 Altair Enlighten Awards

Presented annually with CAR, this year the Altair Enlighten Award will honor the greatest sustainability and ightweighting advancements that show a successful commitment in reducing the carbon footprint, mitigating water and energy consumption, as well as successful efforts in material reuse and recycling.

With each new release, SAE EDGE™ Research Reports unpack significant engineering challenges. Explore the reports for an understanding of where the brightest minds in mobility are concentrating their efforts. See our newest releases below.

CEOs Gather for Exclusive Discussion on Industry Outlook; Ford's Medical Director on the COVID-19 Response

In Case You Missed It: Industry Conversations

Tesla Model Y Takes Top Honors – Majority of Winners are Eco-Friendly

DEARBORN, Mich., (April 27, 2021) — According to AAA, driver interest in advanced safety technology is high. When asked which of these systems they want in their next vehicle, two-thirds (67%) of drivers say Automatic Emergency Braking, followed by Reverse Automatic Emergency Braking (63%) and Lane Keeping Assistance (61%). A majority of new vehicle models come equipped with at least one of these systems. To help consumers navigate the marketplace, AAA created its annual AAA Car Guide, which ranks and rates the latest in vehicle technology, including alternative fuel vehicles.

This past week, the electric vehicle push focused heavily on significant battery plant announcements and their implications. We also saw vehicle safety appear yet again as a hot topic in the news with the Tesla crash in Texas this week. Additionally, we are monitoring the growing impact the microchip shortage and COVID-19 surges are having on the automotive industry. Lastly, this week we celebrated Earth Day and highlighted the importance of continued conversations surrounding sustainability in the industry and beyond.

State of Michigan Land Bank Authority seeks proposals for former Forbes Dry Cleaners property

LANSING, Mich.—The State Land Bank Authority (SLBA) has released a Request for Qualifications (RFQ) for the redevelopment of the former Forbes Dry Cleaners property in Ypsilanti Charter Township (Township). Submissions are requested from any qualified developer in good standing with the State of Michigan and the Township.