American-made Electric Cars: President Obama and High School Students Agree

In last night’s State of the Union address, President Obama reiterated his goal to see 1 million plug-in and electric vehicles on the road by 2015.  Electric vehicles (EVs) are a great example of the potential of American innovation to enhance competitiveness, boost exports, and provide jobs — while at the same time cutting our dependence on oil.  As many of us listened to the President’s address from the comfort of our own homes, one student from West Philadelphia was in the room—sitting behind first lady Michelle Obama.

High school student Brandon Ford was invited by the first lady because he is a member of the West Philly Hybrid X Team which competed late last year in the Progressive Automotive X Prize, a $10 Million competition for developing the best 100 mile per gallon-equivalent car.  The high school team represents the next generation of automotive engineering in the US.

We caught up with the team at the X Prize competition late last year and heard their message loud and clear that they believe in and are working towards a future of made-in-America advanced vehicles.  President Obama couldn’t agree more.  He has said time and again the he wants to see EVs and advanced batteries “made right here in America, by American businesses and American workers.”

Click here to listen to an NPR interview with another member of the West Philly Hybrid X Team who proudly watched his teammate on TV sitting with Michelle Obama.