How a Chinese battery factory sparked a political meltdown in a small Michigan town
restofworld.org
The ambitious executives at Gotion wanted to join America’s EV gold rush. Then came geopolitics.
  • The Gotion factory highlights the challenges Chinese companies face in the U.S., particularly during a climate of deep political polarization, nationalism, and growing suspicion toward China.
  • A grassroots “No Go” movement, fueled by fears of communism and environmental concerns, successfully stalled the project in Michigan, leading to the ouster of local officials who supported the factory.
  • The Gotion case shows the disconnect between national economic goals and local concerns, especially in communities wary of globalization and foreign investment.
  • kibiz0r@midwest.socialEnglish
    91·
    22 hours ago

    Thelen brought a jar of lithium iron phosphate to the podium. Grim-faced and wearing a navy blue suit, he poured out a small sample of the substance into a bottle for the audience to pass around. Then he began reading safety guidelines for handling it. “If you get it on the skin, wash it off,” he said. “If you get it in your mouth, drink plenty of water.”

    Then, Thelen opened the jar again, this time dipping his index finger inside. “This is my finger,” he said, putting his finger in his mouth. A sucking sound was heard across the room. He raised his finger up high. “That’s how non-toxic this material is.”

    The No Gos were not impressed.

    Worked fine for Midgley, after all.