Automakers and auto parts manufacturers are planning to step up their game in the electric and hybrid car market by mass-producing lithium ion vehicle batteries in Michigan. During a meeting at the Detroit Economic Club, a panel of experts discussed the possible benefits of expanding their manufacturing capabilities to the electric market.

“We think that this industry could grow from basically $0 last year to a $14 million industry in 2015,” said Dan Galves, an auto industry analyst from Deutsche Bank, during the meeting, The Detroit News reports.

General Motors is planning to hire 1,000 engineers and technicians to work on developing electric car technology, and a Massachusetts battery-maker, A123 Systems, is expanding its reach to Detroit with 1,000 new employees so far, with plans to bring more people in over the next few years, according to CBS Detroit.

The head of A123, David Vieau, told the Detroit Free Press that adopting electric vehicles as the main mode of transportation will not only reduce fuel consumption, but it will create more domestic jobs. Electric and hybrid vehicles can save drivers money at the pump and vehicle extended warranties can help keep the new cars in good condition.