Keaton PetersA new facility at the University of Michigan plans to accelerate research and development of battery technology. The $60 million project, recently approved by the university’s Board of Regents, will add approximately 25,000 square feet to the University of Michigan Transportation Research Institute (UMTRI) in Ann Arbor to establish a specialized Electric Vehicle Center (EVC) battery laboratory.
The funding for the expansion comes entirely from a State of Michigan grant. The construction will be designed by architectural firm SmithGroup, with design work beginning immediately, according to a document from the university regents.
The automotive industry is undergoing a major transformation with the rise of electric vehicles, and research facilities like the UMTRI addition are an important part of the auto development and manufacturing ecosystem. Michigan has a long history as a center for auto manufacturing, but it faces growing competition from overseas and other regions across the nation. With $60 million to build a new battery laboratory, the University of Michigan is planning to boost its position as a research leader in batteries and EVs.
The new facility will feature three dedicated battery laboratories equipped for research into next-generation battery technologies. The expansion also includes auxiliary support areas, a substation and specialized facilities for battery cell testing — critical for developing safer, more reliable electric vehicle components. An enclosed penthouse will house dehumidifiers essential for maintaining optimal conditions in battery laboratory operations.
Safety features are a prominent component of the design, with plans for minor renovations within the existing UMTRI building and the installation of a new on-site fire hydrant to improve emergency response capabilities. The comprehensive project scope covers all necessary architectural, electrical and mechanical work.
The university estimates that additional parking spaces will be needed for the project, with plans to accommodate these needs through pedestrian access to an existing parking lot.
The University of Michigan’s Transportation Research Institute has long served as a nexus for automotive research in the U.S. This expansion strengthens its capacity to provide hands-on
education in emerging battery technologies, potentially addressing the industry-wide talent shortage in electric vehicle engineering.
The project’s $60 million price tag will be covered by a State of Michigan grant, though the university noted that “construction cash flow may be provided, all or in part, by bond proceeds or increasing the commercial paper issuance under the commercial paper program.” These financing mechanisms will be secured by a pledge of general revenues and have been authorized by the Board of Regents.
While a detailed construction timeline has not yet been released, university officials indicated that they will return with a construction schedule when seeking approval of the schematic design.
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