The Transformers Animated cartoon series from about 10 years ago (which is actually pretty good) took this idea. Robotics revitalized Detroit.
Having grown up halfway between Detroit and Toronto, I’m sad to see the city deteriorate the way it has. One of my favourite memories is going to Tiger Staium.
Even 35 years ago, the scariest part of driving south was making sure you didn’t take a wrong turn getting from the bridge/tunnel to the I75. Better just to cross at Sarnia/Port Huron and stay on the highway.