By Jerome Vaughn, Michigan Public Radio Network
DETROIT, MI – Michigan Governor Jennifer Granholm joined the Vice President in Detroit Wednesday as he announced more than $2 billion in automotive technology grants. Granholm says local lawmakers are responsible for gathering support in Washington for the funds. She says battery technology will be critical to the state's future economy:
"Michigan has put $700 million into battery credits, pack assembly, cell manufacturing, research and development and the integration with the vehicle," she said.
Granholm says state officials decided in November 2006 to focus on developing the battery sector. Vice President Joe Biden says the new investments should create 19,000 jobs.