; (C) communication and connectivity among vehicles, infrastructure, and the electrical grid; and (D) other innovative technologies research and development, as determined by the Secretary. (3) Industry participation (A) In general To the maximum extent practicable, activities under this Act shall be carried out in partnership or collaboration with automotive manufacturers, heavy commercial, vocational, and transit vehicle manufacturers, qualified plug-in electric vehicle manufacturers, compressed natural gas vehicle manufacturers, vehicle and engine equipment and component manufacturers, manufacturing equipment manufacturers, advanced vehicle service providers, fuel producers and energy suppliers, electric utilities, universities, national laboratories, and independent research laboratories. (B) Requirements In carrying out this Act, the Secretary shall— (i) determine whether a wide range of companies that manufacture or assemble vehicles or components in the United States are represented in ongoing public-private partnership activities, including firms that have not traditionally participated in federally sponsored research and development activities, and where possible, partner with such firms that conduct significant and relevant research and development activities in the United States; (ii) leverage the capabilities and resources of, and formalize partnerships with, industry-led stakeholder organizations, nonprofit organizations, industry consortia, and trade associations with expertise in the research and development of, and education and outreach activities in, advanced automotive and commercial vehicle technologies; (iii) develop more effective processes for transferring research findings and technologies to industry