The need to reduce UK carbon emissions has created new industries
and opportunities. This is outlined in the 2016 Industrial Strategy
Automotive Sector Deal, designed to ensure that the UK
benefits from the transition to ultra-low and zero-emission
vehicles by continuing to build the innovative and competitive
supply chain needed to secure international investment.
£25 million is available through an Innovate UK and Advanced
Propulsion Centre (APC) competition to support pre-production
projects that can enhance the UK’s long-term capabilities and
supply chain in zero-emission vehicles.
Developing the zero-emission supply chain
The APC 13 competition is seeking collaborative R&D projects
that can support the long-term development and supply chain of
zero-emission vehicles.
Eligible projects must either speed up the development of low-
and zero-emission vehicles or demonstrate a significant reduction
in CO2 emissions. This can involve improving production and
competitiveness in design, build and manufacturing across
technologies such as:
- alternative propulsion systems
- electric machines and power electronics
- energy storage and management
- lightweight vehicles and powertrain structures
- thermal propulsion systems
Projects that will make a positive impact on the UK supply chain
will be prioritised. This can include:
- creating new supply chains in zero-emission vehicles and
electrification
- delivering a UK-centric high value manufacturing and sourcing
footprint
- lowering the overall cost of goods sold to customers
- attracting new companies not traditionally serving the
automotive sector
- the competition opens on 13 May 2019 and the deadline for
registration is at midday on 10 July 2019
- organisations must be based in the UK and work with at least
1 micro-, small- or medium-sized business
- total eligible costs must be 50% match funded and between
£5-40 million
- a briefing event will be held on 14 May 2019
