OAK RIDGE, Tenn., Jan. 17, 2008 -- Oak Ridge National Laboratory will lead research and development work for the automotive supplier industry initiated through the U.S. Automotive Partnership for Advancing Research and Technologies, or USAutoPARTs collaborative announced today at the North American International Auto Show in Detroit.
Made up of a consortium of federal and private partners, USAutoPARTs, will perform pre-competitive research targeted at priorities established by the automotive supplier industry. Initial research will focus on advanced materials; electronics and hybrid technologies; and fuels, engine, and emission control technologies.
Signing a memorandum of intent to participate in the alliance were Michigan Governor Jennifer Granholm, Department of Energy Under Secretary Clarence H. Albright Jr. and Neil De Koker, president and CEO of the Original Equipment Suppliers Association or OESA.
Michigan suppliers will be at the center of this partnership to develop advanced automotive and alternative energy technologies, said Gov. Granholm. As this center evolves, we are determined to see that their cutting edge research results in innovative products designed and produced right here in Michigan.
Through the initiative, suppliers will be able to utilize the expertise of the national laboratory system, with Oak Ridge National Laboratory serving as lead lab for the project, to aid them in research for Americas next generation of automotive components and systems and helping solve todays manufacturing problems. The labs plan to perform advanced research and provide technical assistance valued at up to $9 million beginning in 2008. Suppliers and others may choose to participate in one or more of the current research focus areas or those that will be selected in the future. Participants are required to make a financial contribution to the research, which can include loaned personnel and in-kind contributions.
T
'/>"/>
| Contact: Larisa Brass brasslm@ornl.gov 865-574-4163 DOE/Oak Ridge National Laboratory Source:Eurekalert |