Illinois, a longtime manufacturer of autos and parts, has scored some early wins in the EV race by attracting Rivian and electric school-bus and truck manufacturer Lion Electric, which is setting up a factory in Joliet that could employ up to 1,400 people.
In an interview, Gov. J.B. Pritzker said Illinois is prioritizing workforce training and other support for the industry, because of the direction things are heading. The state last year adopted a law that provides new tax credits to EV and battery manufacturers, and allows local governments to abate property taxes for such projects.