Local, state, and national leaders in EV manufacturing meet in Savannah to share its impact

by Joe Hennessy

SAVANNAH, Ga. (WTOC) - Collaborators wanting electric vehicles throughout communities say the fast-emerging electric vehicle manufacturing hub in Georgia is helping lead a nationwide shift.

“Just to chat about electric vehicles and the multitude of advantages that they can provide to users, to fleets,” said City of Savannah Clean Energy Program Manager Joshua Corning after Thursday’s meeting at the Savannah Visitors Center.

Corning wants the city to be a leader and innovator.

“Just really excited to have all of these folks from around the state and around the country coming to Savannah to talk about the impact of electric vehicles,” he said.

“The total investment in surrounding counties is about 7,116 jobs. $2.5 billion in capital investment,” said Carter Infinger, Bryan County Board of Commissioners Chairman.

According to the Electrification Coalition, as of August last year, $24.4 billion in private investments have been spread across Georgia alone to increase the manufacturing industry. That led to about $347 million in additional federal funding.

Danielle Arnold is one of many switching from gas power to electric power.

“It feels good to know that I can do something small to help with the environment, and I understand that there are pros and cons on both sides, but, in my eyes, this has more pros than cons,” she said.

Corning went on to talk about how broad discussions like this help their initiatives at home.

“We have our 100% Savannah Clean Energy Plan, and electric vehicles are a part of that plan, so we’re always excited to learn as well as contribute to discussions in the space.”

WATCH: WTOC gets tour of Hyundai Motor Group Metaplant in Bryan County

Speakers at Thursday’s meeting included: