CELEBRATING A CENTURY OF INNOVATION AT GENERAL MOTORS' MILFORD PROVING GROUND Speaker: Congresswoman Elissa Slotkin Publication: Congressional Record Date: 1 October 2024 Subject: American Government Topic: General Motors

Ms. SLOTKIN. Mr. Speaker, today I honor and celebrate the 100th anniversary of General Motors' Milford Proving Ground, a site that has been a cornerstone of progress in the automotive industry. Located in Oakland County, Michigan, Milford Proving Ground has played a pivotal role in shaping the future of transportation since its opening on September 25, 1924, and stands as the oldest dedicated vehicle testing facility in the world.

For the past century, Milford Proving Ground has been at the forefront of technological breakthroughs that have transformed the way we travel and stay safe on the road. The facility has a rich history of safety testing, including conducting the first vehicle rollover tests in 1934 and developing guardrails to reduce accidents and injuries. General Motors engineers pioneered the creation of crash test dummies. The site was also instrumental in introducing key safety features such as airbags, child car seats, and anti-lock brakes--improvements that have saved countless lives and set global standards for vehicle safety.

Throughout its 100 years, Milford Proving Ground has led the way in automotive progress and reliability. During World War II, the facility was an integral part of America's Arsenal of Democracy, supporting the war effort by testing tanks and other military vehicles to ensure they could withstand the harsh challenges of combat. In response to evolving standards and environmental concerns, engineers tested the first engine to run on unleaded fuel and made significant strides in increasing fuel efficiency and reducing emissions.

As we reflect on its remarkable history, we must also look to the Milford Proving Ground's future as a hub of groundbreaking innovation. The site, which now covers over 4,000 acres with over 150 miles of test courses, continues to drive leading-edge advancements. It is here that the next generation of electric vehicles is being put through its paces, along with vehicles designed for space exploration, such as the Lunar Mobility Vehicle for NASA's Artemis mission.

It's also important to recognize not only the Milford Proving Ground's technological milestones but also the people who made these accomplishments possible. From past pioneers to the more than 4,200 employees who work there today, each has played a vital role. Test drivers and engineers have pushed vehicles to their limits, while environmental specialists have helped preserve the site's natural beauty and wildlife, making General Motors a world leader in automotive testing and development.

It is with deep appreciation that I recognize its century of service and contributions to the automotive industry here in the official record of the United States House of Representatives. May General Motors' Milford Proving Ground continue to exemplify American ingenuity and serve as a beacon of innovation for many more years to come.