News & Events

Battery Lab Now Reserving Time at North Campus and Ellsworth
EVC News | 05/14/25

U-M’s Battery Lab is accepting reservations for Q2 and Q3 2025 at both of its operating locations. Battery Lab 1.0 (North Campus) supports small- to medium-format pouch cells, 18650s, and coin cells, with over 550 cycling channels and ultra-high precision coulometry. The new Battery Lab 2.0 (Ellsworth Road) offers a 4,000 sq. ft. –40°C dewpoint dry room, large-format pouch and 21700 cell capability, and an automated laser welding system for module and pack development.

Maizey & the Future of Learning: On-Demand AI for U-M’s Engineering Teams
EVC News | 05/14/25

What if students could get expert-level answers without waiting for office hours? At Michigan Engineering, they can. A custom-built version of U-M’s Maizey AI platform is now supporting student project teams with just-in-time knowledge — from safety protocols to simulation tools. Developed by students for students, this tool is transforming how tomorrow’s engineers learn, lead, and collaborate.

Leading with Purpose: Ashlee Breitner’s Dual Role in Workforce Transformation
EVC News | 05/14/25

From rural roots to statewide impact, Ashlee Breitner brings a grounded, people-first approach to her dual roles at the Electric Vehicle Center and Economic Growth Institute. In this profile, she shares how growing up in a small town shaped her leadership style, why workforce transformation starts with access, and what drives her passion for community-based innovation.

Power Up Your Battery and Energy Knowledge This Spring
EVC News | 04/15/25

From online certificates to in-person demos and expert panels, this spring offers three ways to boost your energy IQ. Topics range from battery manufacturing and fire safety to lithium-ion storage and the future of the grid – with the EV Center’s Jason Siegel and Greg Less featured in the programs.

Designing Opportunity: Jessi Kittel’s Vision for EV Workforce Development
EVC News | 04/15/25

From biomedical ethics to aerial silks, Jessi Kittel brings a creative and systems-focused approach to everything she does. As Workforce Development Lead at the U-M Electric Vehicle Center, she’s helping Michigan communities navigate the EV transition through hands-on training, equity-centered strategy, and imaginative learning design.

EV Symposium 2025 Recap: High Marks for First-Ever Gathering
EVC News | 04/07/25

The U-M Electric Vehicle Center’s first-ever Symposium drew nearly 300 attendees to NCRC April 1–2 for two days of keynotes, panels, research tours, student posters, and networking. With an all-star lineup of speakers and the announcement of $1M in new seed funding for EV research, the event exceeded expectations and energized collaboration across Michigan’s electric mobility ecosystem.

Driving Innovation: Harvey Bell’s Legacy in Engineering and Education
EVC News | 03/17/25

A. Harvey Bell IV has spent a lifetime pushing the boundaries of engineering — first at General Motors, where he led the development of the Camaro and Firebird, and now at the University of Michigan, where he mentors student teams in cutting-edge mobility and AI projects. Through his work with the Multidisciplinary Design Program and the Electric Vehicle Center, he’s shaping the next generation of engineers, equipping them with the skills to tackle the industry’s toughest challenges with creativity and innovation.

Breaking the 10-Minute Barrier – The Future of Extreme Fast Charging
EVC Events | 03/03/25

Can EVs be fully charged in just 10 minutes? Join Prof. Neil Dasgupta at our next free Surge Session webinar on March 10, as he explores cutting-edge advancements in extreme fast charging for lithium-ion batteries—an innovation that could revolutionize EV adoption. Learn how new materials, manufacturing techniques, and diagnostics are addressing the biggest challenge to fast charging: lithium plating on the graphite anode. Plus, discover a breakthrough that enables fast charging even in sub-zero temperatures. Learn more and register soon.

Forged by Industry, Inspired by Innovation: The Journey of Mihaela Banu
EVC News | 02/11/25

From welding in a Romanian shipyard to pioneering lightweight materials at the University of Michigan, Mihaela (Miki) Banu has spent her career pushing the boundaries of engineering innovation. As the EV Center’s Technology Director, she helps bridge the gap between academia and industry, applying lessons learned from her global research journey – including collaborations in Japan and France – to advance sustainable manufacturing. Discover how Miki’s early fascination with materials, her deep-rooted passion for problem-solving, and her dream of becoming a pastry chef shape her inspiring career in engineering.

Missed a Surge Session EV Webinar? Watch the Recordings Anytime
EVC News | 01/19/25

Our Surge Session Webinar Series has brought together top experts to share insights, research, and practical solutions shaping the future of electric mobility. Since launching the series, we’ve hosted three sessions focused on EV infrastructure and one exploring the climate impact of vehicle choices. If you missed any – or want to revisit your favorites – you can now watch the recordings on our YouTube channel. Stay informed, stay inspired, and stay connected to the conversations driving the EV transition.

Reflecting on 2024: The EV Center’s Progress and Plans for 2025
EVC News | 01/18/25

The EV Center team made significant progress in 2024, advancing their mission, vision, and strategic pillars across technology, education, workforce development, and facilities. As we look ahead to 2025, exciting initiatives like the launch of Battery Lab 2.0, new research projects, and the first EV Symposium are on the horizon. Read more about our accomplishments and plans for the future of electric mobility at the link above.

$1M in New Funding Announced for Mobility Innovation Through EVC-MTRAC Partnership
EVC News | 01/17/25

The EVC is partnering with the MTRAC Advanced Transportation Innovation Hub to provide $1 million in funding for translational research projects with high commercial potential related to electric mobility and transportation. Research faculty from all Michigan public universities can apply for Kickstart Awards (up to $50K) or Mid-Stage Awards ($50K–$200K). Proposals are due by February 28, 2025.

From Batteries to Battlefields: Greg Less Powers Innovation at U-M’s Battery Lab
EVC News | 01/14/25

Explore the fascinating journey of Greg Less, the Technical Director of U-M’s Battery Lab, as he bridges the worlds of cutting-edge battery research and medieval recreation. From his early career in chemistry to leading the upcoming Battery Lab 2.0 expansion, Greg reflects on the challenges and opportunities of advancing EV technology. Learn how his passion for teaching, support from his family, and experiences in the Society for Creative Anachronism continue to inspire his groundbreaking work.

Speakers & Surprises Await at Inaugural EV Symposium
EVC Events | 12/12/24

Seats are filling fast for U-M’s inaugural Electric Vehicle Center Symposium, April 1-2, 2025. Don’t miss this opportunity to join leaders in electric mobility, U-M faculty, and other engaging experts to explore the innovations shaping the future of transportation. With dynamic keynotes, tech talks, power panels, a poster session, and more, this free event promises insights and connections you won’t want to miss. Learn more and RSVP today before your calendar fills up!

Red Flannel Beginnings Inspire a Life of Advocacy for Michelle Campbell
EVC News | 12/11/24

Discover the inspiring story of Michelle Campbell, the EVC’s DEIA Lead, as she reflects on her small-town upbringing in Cedar Springs, Michigan, her journey into advocacy, and her mission to build equity and inclusion into everything she does. Learn how Michelle’s love of community, her 20-year partnership with her high school sweetheart Reuben, and their recent journey into parenthood continue to shape her impactful work at Michigan Engineering.