Senator Wants Funding Help for Fuel-Economy Increases
January 17, 2008

By Michelle Krebs

Sen. Debbie Stabenow, D-Mich., told AutoObserver Wednesday that one of her top priorities, now that the new energy bill is passed, is to procure federal funding to help automakers meet the recently passed more stringent fuel economy standards.

"I'm laser-focused" on the issue, Stabenow said. In particular, she said she wants to see funding for development of lithium-ion batteries, currently produced by overseas companies yet a critical element to make future hybrid and range-extending vehicles like the Chevrolet Volt, viable. Having U.S. battery makers is a national security issue, she said.

Stabenow's remarks came at a breakfast in Detroit sponsored by InForum, a women's professional group, that hosted a panel discussion on environmental issues related to the auto industry.

AutoObserver editor Michelle Krebs moderated the panel discussion.

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