Detroit Mayor Mike Duggan Teases EV Charging Stations at Auto Show

DETROIT, Mich. – Mayor Mike Duggan, in his final tour of the Detroit Auto Show as mayor, teased plans for new electric vehicle (EV) charging stations across the city and shared his enthusiasm for Detroit-made vehicles. Duggan, who is preparing to leave office to run for governor, walked the exhibition floor Thursday, test-driving vehicles like the Jeep Wrangler, Ford Bronco Sport Badlands, and his favorite, the Escalade IQ.

“It’s pretty spectacular,” Duggan said of the Escalade IQ, emphasizing his preference for electric vehicles. He added that while he enjoys driving the Wrangler on weekends, his daily driver remains the Detroit-made Grand Cherokee. “I don’t care if you buy a gasoline-powered car or an electric car. I just want that car made in Detroit,” Duggan said.

The mayor announced plans to expand EV charging infrastructure, funded by a $10 million grant from the Biden administration. By mid-2025, fast-charging stations will be installed along Jefferson and Gratiot Avenues, with locations identified by the city’s neighborhoods department. “You’re going to have Detroit electric charging stations just like we have Green Light stations,” Duggan said.

Duggan also expressed excitement about the potential for driverless vehicles in Detroit. Having experienced autonomous driving in San Francisco, he hopes to see similar technology showcased at next year’s auto show. “It’s pretty extraordinary to get in a vehicle with no driver and have it take you around,” he said.

The Detroit Auto Show, which returned to its traditional January schedule after two summer editions, is expected to generate significant economic impact. Karl Zimmermann, auto show chair, anticipates this year’s event will reach at least half of its peak $300 million impact. Duggan highlighted the show’s role in showcasing Detroit’s automotive innovation and optimism for the future.

Beyond the auto show, Duggan praised the city’s revitalization efforts, including the refurbished People Mover and improved QLINE service. He also celebrated the Detroit Lions‘ impact on the city’s morale, calling their recent success “remarkable.”

As Duggan prepares for his gubernatorial campaign, he plans to advocate for Tesla‘s participation in future auto shows. “I’m already planning to go see Elon Musk and convince him Tesla needs to be a part of this show,” he said.