Historically, Michigan is regarded as the birthplace of the automotive industry. More than a century later and Michigan is still seen as a global leader in reinventing transportation. As the world races toward a future defined by electric vehicles (EVs) and sustainable transportation, Michigan is once again leading the way.
Home to 26 automakers and over $27 billion invested in more than 60 EV manufacturing and battery projects, there is no more dense ecosystem supporting the automotive and transportation industry in the world. From Detroit to Holland, Flint to the Upper Peninsula, Michigan-based companies are rewriting the playbook on mobility and, in the process, enabling a more sustainable and electrified future for all.
Whether you’re a car enthusiast or a tech lover tracking the next breakthrough in clean transportation, here are the Michigan-grown companies you need to know:
Arbor Battery Innovations
Founded in Ann Arbor in 2022, Arbor Battery Innovations was born from groundbreaking research at the University of Michigan, which addressed fundamental limitations in charging speed, energy density, and manufacturing efficiency. With support and funding from the U.S. Department of Energy, Department of Defense, and other private sector partners, Arbor is paving the way for a new era in battery performance that is faster, safer, and more reliable.
Bollinger Motors
The commercial electric truck manufacturer Bollinger Motors moved its headquarters and manufacturing to Oak Park, Michigan, from upstate New York in 2017 following the launch of the company’s first prototype. Today, Bollinger Motors builds and sells all-electric class 4 and 5 trucks—setting new standards for performance and sustainability.
Dunamis Charge
Headquartered and expertly crafted in Detroit, Dunamis Charge combines top-notch, safe, and reliable hardware and software solutions to deliver accessible, high-quality, and affordable EV charging. Dunamis offers residential and commercial L2 and DC Fast Charging solutions that include cloud-based software and world-class service and maintenance.
Energy Storage Safety Product International (ESSPI)
Founded in 2015 in Detroit by a former City of Detroit firefighter, ESSPI is engineering safer storage and transit solutions for lithium batteries, from cell manufacturing to battery packs. At the heart of all ESSPI’s solutions is their flagship Battery Logistics Integrated Safety System (BLISS), which monitors, manages, and mitigates risks throughout every stage of the battery life cycle.
KUHMUTE
Founded in 2022 and manufactured in Flint, Michigan, KUHMUTE produces charging hubs for electric bikes and scooters. KUHMUTE offers safe and secure charging platforms that can accommodate multi-modal devices, designed for campuses and multi-family properties.
Ms. BB’s EV Charge
Founded in Detroit in 2016, Ms. BB’s EV Charge aims to make EV charging as easy and accessible as possible with its mobile EV charging solutions. Ms. BB’s serves stranded EV drivers who have run out of charge while on the road as well as EV owners who subscribe to charging services to fill a gap in local charging infrastructure.
Our Next Energy (ONE)
Founded in 2020, ONE is a Michigan-based company creating durable, safe, and sustainable energy storage solutions. ONE is rapidly clearing hurdles that stand in the way of mass clean energy adoption: extending range, increasing safety, lowering cost and, of course, using the cleanest chemistries.
Scout Motors
Designed and engineered in Novi, Michigan, Scout Motors was reimagined in 2022 to build the next era of trucks and rugged SUVs rooted in the same tradition that made the original Scout vehicle (1961-1980) an American icon. As of today, Scout has brought two iconic electric models to market: the Traveler SUV and the Terra Truck.
Electric Outdoors
Founded in 2023 in Michigan, Electric Outdoors wants to revolutionize how you enjoy the great outdoors sustainably. The company’s flagship product, the EO Canopy, is manufactured in Detroit and makes it possible for EV owners to camp off the grid and return home with a full charge.
At Electric Outdoors, our vision for off-grid exploration isn’t possible without an industry deeply committed to decarbonization and an electrified future. That ecosystem—one driven by innovation, responsibility, and impact—is thriving here in Michigan.
These companies are building more than just vehicles, batteries, and charging stations. They’re designing the trucks that can take you on your next wilderness adventure, the battery systems that keep your basecamp safe and powered through the night, and the charging solutions that make EV travel more accessible to everyone. Michigan is creating the playbook for a new kind of freedom—the freedom to explore responsibly, powered by clean energy and backed by bold ideas.
Because for us, the EV revolution isn’t just about performance or profit. It’s about doing what’s right for the planet, for future generations, and for all the places we love to roam. It’s about ensuring that the natural beauty we explore today is still here tomorrow.
That’s why we see Michigan not only as a hub of electrification but as a partner in purpose. Together, we’re creating a future where adventure is not only possible, but sustainable by design.
About Electric Outdoors
Electric Outdoors wants to revolutionize how you enjoy the great outdoors sustainably. Its flagship product, the EO Canopy, makes it possible for EV owners to camp off the grid. Learn more at electricoutdoors.tech or @electricoutdoors.