Michigan state board approves $100M supercomputing lab for U-M

The state of Michigan is making significant investments in advanced technology and manufacturing, with major funding approvals for a cutting-edge supercomputing facility and electric vehicle production expansion.

Major investment details: The Michigan Strategic Fund board has approved approximately $100 million for a University of Michigan (U-M) supercomputing lab and nearly $28 million for Detroit Diesel Corporation’s electric vehicle components expansion.

• The U-M supercomputing project, partnering with Los Alamos National Laboratory, represents a total investment of $785 million
• Detroit Diesel’s funding will support a $285 million expansion of electric component manufacturing for medium and heavy-duty electric trucks
• Both projects require final approval from House and Senate appropriations committees

Supercomputing facility specifics: The new facility represents a significant expansion of U-M’s research capabilities and Los Alamos National Laboratory’s computing infrastructure.

• The project will create 200 high-paying jobs over 10 years, with average annual salaries of $200,000
• U-M will construct a 10-megawatt non-classified facility, while Los Alamos will build a separate 100-megawatt facility
• The complex will be built on 20 acres in Ypsilanti, with completion expected by 2029 or 2030
• Los Alamos is investing $685 million in their portion of the facility

Strategic significance: Michigan secured the project over other potential locations, including New Mexico, due to several competitive advantages.

• Los Alamos chose Michigan based on the state’s electrical grid, water infrastructure, airport access, and housing availability
• The facility is expected to advance research in science, energy, and national security
• The project is being compared to Michigan State University’s Facility for Rare Isotope Beams in terms of potential impact

Detroit Diesel expansion details: The automotive manufacturer’s project represents a significant investment in electric vehicle technology.

• The expansion will preserve 2,000 existing jobs and create 436 new positions
• New positions include 335 hourly jobs paying $25.86 per hour and 101 engineering positions with $113,000 annual salaries
• The company will receive additional benefits, including a 15-year personal property tax exemption worth up to $3.3 million

Future implications: These investments position Michigan to become a leading hub for both advanced computing and electric vehicle manufacturing.

• The supercomputing facility is expected to drive innovation in artificial intelligence research and attract additional investments
• Detroit Diesel’s expansion strengthens Michigan’s role in the transition to zero-emission vehicles
• The projects represent a strategic effort to diversify Michigan’s economy while building on its traditional manufacturing strengths