- Michigan wants repayments to start on a $35 million loan to a self-driving auto test site. - The American Center for Mobility, however, says the nonprofit was never meant to repay the state’s startup costs. - The conflict comes as Michigan fights to keep its automotive research hubs relevant Michigan is demanding repayment of $35 million from a state-backed mobility research center supporters say is critical to keeping autonomous vehicle development in Michigan. The American Center for Mobility, a 340-acre test facility in Ypsilanti Township, says annual payment sought by the state could jeopardize the nonprofit project despite a financial rebound last year. “It’s a state investment to help cement the auto industry’s place in Michigan,” said state Sen. Jeff Irwin, D-Ann Arbor, who wants the state to forgive the loan or delay debt repayment. “It makes sense to continue that effort.” The nonprofit tests robotaxis, automated trucks and high-tech delivery services. Related: - Michigan sunk $67M into self-driving car test track. Now, some fear bankruptcy - Sale of Willow Run site to center for driverless car testing could close next summer - Photos: See history of Willow Run, from B-24 bomber and engines to bankruptcy Last year, documents show it built a $1.59 million surplus, which would be wiped out by Michigan’s demands for $1.62 million per year in payments on a loan that went into forbearance last year. The conflict comes at a pivotal time for self-driving technology after US automotive research funding went through years of “peaks and valleys,” said Glenn Stevens, executive director of MichAuto advocacy group. In all, the state has invested $67 million in the site, a former General Motors facility, and already has forgiven an earlier $15 million loan. Pushing too hard for payments would make that spending “worthless” if it drives