Westland joins electric vehicle program
The City of Westland is looking toward a greener future.
While Westland has already begun promoting the shift to greener transportation, having approved the installation of four electric vehicle charging stations on city-owned property in April, officials have now agreed to work with AAW Infrastructure Partners, L3C to launch an innovative program designed to give the city the means to purchase electric vehicles (EVs) and charging stations.
AAW raises funds through “hybrid” advertising-sponsorship arrangements with businesses, organizations and individuals, and applies those funds to energy-efficient projects that save money for cities. In turn, AAW promotes the advertisers-sponsors, encouraging customer traffic and sales.
AAW representatives also encourage advertisers-sponsors to take advantage of complimentary energy assessments from DTE Energy to help businesses reduce their energy costs and save money. The Royal Oak-based AAW Infrastructure Partners, L3C calls its project the EV-Mobility and Economic Stimulus program.
President Joe Biden recently set a new national target for the adoption of electric vehicles, calling for them to represent 40 to 50 percent of all new auto sales by 2030. In response, the Westland
proposed 2021-22 budget includes funding for the purchase of a Ford all electric F-150 Lightning for the Westland Police Department to utilize as a community police vehicle. Westland will purchase the new Lightning from Westland based, North Brothers Ford. Delivery of the new vehicle is expected to take place in early 2022.
President Joe Biden recently set a new national target for the adoption of electric vehicles, calling for them to represent 40 to 50 percent of all new auto sales by 2030.
“We are very pleased to have one of Michigan's most respected mayors and current President of the Michigan Municipal League recognize the value of our program,” commented Thomas Wither, CEO of AAW Infrastructure Partners, L3C. “Mayor Wild has proven to be a tireless champion for the City's business community and in addition to helping Westland, seamlessly, transition to new electric vehicles and charging stations, we look forward to helping him support local businesses.”
Westland officials approved an EV-mobility and Economic Stimulus Program Memorandum of Understanding (MOI) with AAW Infrastructure Partners, L3C. The program, which has no cost to the city, promotes the acquisition of electric vehicles by having overages paid for directly by the organization. Historically, electric vehicles are more expensive than standard models, and as part of the agreement, AAW will pay cities the difference of these more expensive vehicles as an incentive to begin updating fleets to electric options, where applicable.
“I am extremely optimistic about a more sustainable future when I see leadership from both the public and private sector working on greener transportation alternatives in conjunction with one another,” commented Mayor William R. Wild.
