Rainforest Action Network

The entire auto industry is hemorrhaging jobs that could be saved by focusing on better fuel efficiency. While the Big Three are struggling to sell SUVs and other gas guzzlers, auto factories are closing and workers are being asked to take buyouts. U.S. automakers have shed 336,000 jobs since 2000, and it is estimated that Ford, GM and Chrysler will eliminate another 100,000 jobs in the next two years.

Job loss is affecting the health our families and communities. By using existing technologies to increase fuel efficiency to just 40 mpg, automakers could create an estimated 161,000 new jobs. We can create even more green jobs by embracing cutting-edge, fuel-efficient technology like that used in plug-in hybrid electric vehicles. 

Join the Green Jobs discussion

PHEV and Green Manufacturing/ Business Market Opportunity Study:

• $250,000 per year to identify best markets for PHEV commercialization and assess other green manufacturing opportunities for the state.
• Assess driving/vehicle trip trends and recommend markets for Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicles (PHEVs) in MNand identify user segments, vehicle functions and fleet types that are best target markets.
• Identify potential growth areas for applied research for green manufacturing industries or alternative and renewable energy technologies; green building products, components for PHEVs; and other products that are environmentally sound and develop an implementation plan and market assessment study to determine the feasibility of locating green manufacturing or assembly businesses at the Ford Plant site in Saint Paul or other appropriate locations in Minnesota;
• Identify barriers to the startup of such businesses and include sales leads for state and regional economic development agencies that would be compatible with a multi-use plan for the Ford site, or suitable for other locations within the city or state;
• Consider industries that require workers with skills similar to the skills of employees of the Saint Paul Ford Plant or for which Ford Plant employees could be retrained; and
• Include cost estimates to convert existing manufacturing plants, such as the Ford plant, into environmentally oriented manufacturing facilities through retooling/retrofits.

Dr. Walter McManus, University of Michigan Transportation Research Institute, “The Consumer Market and Fuel Economy”, Testimony to U.S. Senate Energy and Natural Resource Committee, January 30, 2007.

Ron Gettelfinger, UAW Testimony, “Climate Change and Energy Security: Perspective from the Auto Industry”, Before Subcommittee on Energy and Air Quality and Committee of Energy and Commerce, March 14, 2007.

Can Proactive Fuel Economy Strategies Help Automakers Mitigate Fuel Price Risks? University of Michigan Transportation Research Institute, Septermber 2006.

Office of Aerospace and Automotive Industries, ”The Road Ahead for the US Auto Industry”, International Trade Administration, April 2006.