DETROIT, MI (AP)-- Michigan Governor Rick Snyder says the state manufactured more than 2 million cars last year — a nation-leading number that's more than double the industry's dark days of 2009 and the highest level since 2005.
The Republican governor told reporters Tuesday at the North American International Auto Show that the improving numbers reflect both a resurgent industry and improving state economy. He says auto suppliers are "reconsolidating" operations in Michigan and the automakers themselves are bringing production back from places such as Mexico.
Snyder also reported progress on a program he promoted at last year's auto show that encourages state companies to do business with each other. He says more than 20,000 companies — including the Detroit Three automakers — have signed up for Pure Michigan Business Connect.