Michigan wants to build electrified road to charge moving vehicles

Gov. Gretchen Whitmer announced on Tuesday the state's plan for a one-mile stretch of roadway that would be electrified so vehicles could charge while being driven.

The Inductive Vehicle Charging Pilot, a partnership between the Michigan Department of Transportation and the state's Office of Future Mobility and Electrification, would develop wireless charging infrastructure in the state. 

“Michigan was home to the first mile of paved road, and now we’re paving the way for the roads of tomorrow with innovative infrastructure that will support the economy and the environment, helping us achieve our goal of carbon neutrality by 2050,” Whitmer said in a statement in conjunction with the governor's appearance at the Motor Bella. 

“This project reinforces my commitment to accelerating the deployment of electric vehicle infrastructure in Michigan and will create new opportunities for businesses and high-tech jobs amidst the transition to electric vehicles.” 

MDOT will release a request for proposals on Sept. 28 for a pilot along a one-mile stretch of state-operated roadway in Wayne, Oakland or Macomb counties. 

khall@detroitnews.com

Twitter: @bykaleahall