DTE Energy was proud to partner with the non-profits Michigan Clean Cities and Forth to support the rollout of their unique, electric vehicle (EV) carsharing service in communities across Michigan. This project called the Affordable Mobility Platform (AMP) operates here under the name MI Carshare, and provides the general public with access to EVs at an affordable hourly rate.
“At the heart of MI Carshare is the belief that overcoming barriers to transportation should include zero-emission, modern options to supplement transit and other modes,” said Maggie Striz Calnin, director of Michigan Clean Cities (MICC). “MICC’s mission is to increase the availability and use of clean transportation options, and this carshare pilot from our partners at Forth allows us to bring clean vehicles directly to residents here in Michigan.”
MI Carshare focuses on historically disinvested and affordable housing communities in need of more transportation options. The EVs and the chargers are strategically placed for convenience at locations including River Crest Apartments in Detroit and the Carrot Way community managed by Avalon Housing in Ann Arbor. The program is open to drivers 21 years or older and registration is as simple as downloading the app or completing the application over the phone. Members then have access to a network of electric cars for $5 per hour or $50 per day with included insurance and a full “tank” of fuel.
“This program is a first in Michigan and it’s about more than just providing transportation,” said MICC’s Community Engagement Liaison, Lauren Mixon. “It’s about creating opportunities, and we believe Lieutenant Governor Garlin Gilchrest said it best at our River Crest site launch by saying ‘you can’t get to your dream if you can’t get to your dream.’”
MI Carshare pilot sites are in Kalamazoo, Detroit and Ann Arbor with the goal of expanding the program’s reach and impact across the state. The pilot roll-out is made possible through a grant from the United States Department of Energy’s Vehicle Technology’s Office.
DTE Energy is committed to fostering partnerships like the one with Michigan Clean Cities and delivering on the promise of a clean energy future for us all. Explore how DTE is making a difference in your community by visiting Empowering MI.