DETROIT, MI – U.S. Senator Gary Peters today toured the 2015 North American International Auto Show (NAIAS) at Cobo Hall in Detroit, where he saw firsthand the continued resurgence of the American auto industry. Peters visited the exhibits of General Motors, Chrysler and Ford at the press preview.
Last year proved itself to be a strong year for the auto industry, with nearly 17 million cars sold in the United States in 2014 and new vehicle sales increasing 6%.
Peters said, “Thanks to the hard work and resiliency of middle class workers in Michigan and across the country, our autos are roaring back, and that is clearly evident here today. This year’s show is further proof that American autoworkers can compete against anyone in the world.”
Michigan is also leading the way in advanced manufacturing. Last year, the American Lightweight Materials Manufacturing Innovation Institute (ALMMII), a public-private partnership focused on developing advanced lightweight manufacturing materials and workforce training, announced its headquarters will be located in Detroit.
Peters added, “I am honored and proud to represent the state that all three Big Three manufacturers calls home. Southeast Michigan has more engineers per capita than anywhere else in the country, and by investing in Michigan manufacturing and fostering innovation, our auto industry can continue being an engine for job creation.”
As a member of the U.S. House of Representatives, Peters helped champion key government loans to General Motors and Chrysler, which are credited with saving over one million jobs across the country. Peters co-chaired the bipartisan Congressional Automotive Caucus in the House, where he expanded membership and highlighted the key role the auto industry plays in supporting our economy.
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