LANSING – State Representative Deb Kennedy (D-Brownstown) today announced that General Motors has been approved for a state tax credit valued at $6.8 million over 20 years from the Michigan Economic Growth Authority (MEGA) for the production of lithium ion battery packs for the Chevrolet Volt in Brownstown Township.
"This is fantastic news for our community that will ensure that the next generation of the auto industry stays here in Michigan," Kennedy said. "Investing in GM and other companies that invest in our economy is the best way to create and retain good-paying jobs for our workers. I applaud GM for its commitment to our workforce and our community."
Pending final approval from the company, a new Brownstown Township facility will produce high-tech, lithium ion battery packs for the Chevrolet Volt. The project would result in an overall investment of $43.2 million and create 571 new Michigan jobs, including 140 directly by the company.
In addition, the MEGA Board also approved Michigan Advance Battery Credit Incentives for GM in order to support the engineering and development of battery integration and prototyping. The incentive is the first of its kind in the United States and will provide up to $335 million in refundable tax credits to encourage companies like GM to create and manufacture advanced batteries in Michigan.
"This project is proof that Michigan has the talent and the resources that businesses are seeking in the 21st century economy," Kennedy said. "It will help make Michigan and our community a key player in the emerging industries of the 21st century. Additionally, by producing these batteries for the next generation of auto technology right here in Michigan, we can take a lead role in breaking our dangerous dependence on foreign oil."