EV Symposium 2025 Recap: High Marks for First-Ever Gathering

Nearly 300 attendees filled the University of Michigan’s North Campus Research Complex April 1–2 for the inaugural U-M Electric Vehicle Center Symposium – an event designed to spotlight the latest advances, challenges, and collaborations driving electric mobility in Michigan and beyond.

The sold-out, two-day event brought together leaders from industry, academia, and the public sector for keynotes, power panels, student research presentations, facility tours, and networking. Hosted by the EV Center, the Symposium exceeded expectations for both turnout and impact.

A follow-up survey of attendees yielded an average rating of 9 out of 10, with many praising the range of speakers, strong industry representation, and engaging event experience.

“The speakers were extraordinary. The visionary talks and panels were great. The stage and music were excellent. Overall, a great event.”

“The venue was posh and modern. Student posters were informative and insightful on what the industry is doing on relevant topics.”

Participants particularly highlighted the dynamic keynote presentations by Larry Burns, Justine Johnson, and Bob Lee, as well as panels focused on adapting to industry realities and shaping the EV workforce of the future. The student poster session, mobility displays, and facility tours – including the Wilson Student Team Project Center and Michigan Component & Center (MC²) – gave attendees hands-on insight into U-M’s electric mobility ecosystem.

The event concluded with a major announcement: a $1 million seed funding program to support early-stage EV research projects led by U-M faculty across the university’s three campuses.

More than 150 professional photos capturing moments from the Symposium have been posted online.

View the photo album

With strong feedback and interest already building for a future event, the EV Center is exploring ways to build on the momentum in 2026. Watch for a save the date soon.