Government invests in five low carbon automotive projects

The UK Government has invested £33 million in next-generation technologies to help the automotive sector build a low carbon future.

32 companies will collectively receive the funding for five projects, ranging from developing high-performance battery packs and electrified construction equipment, to hydrogen-powered engines – as well as helping support the establishment of future supply chains.

To mark the announcement, Business Minister, Andrew Stephenson, has visited McLaren in Woking. McLaren Applied Technologies is the lead partner in the ESCAPE project, which is receiving £9.8 million funding, to create a complete end-to-end supply chain for a key component to be used in all electric vehicles, whether automotive, railway, marine or aviation – a first for the UK.

Business and Industry Minister, Andrew Stephenson, said: “This new investment will further enhance the UK’s leading position in the development of clean growth in the automotive sector. We are committed to our Future of Mobility mission to be a world leader in the design and manufacture of zero emissions technology as part of our modern Industrial Strategy.

“These projects will build the capacity and capability of UK companies to manufacture low carbon technology and create high skilled jobs and opportunities for all throughout the country in our development of innovative, clean technology.”

Ian Constance, chief executive of the Advanced Propulsion Centre, said: “Supporting the development of cutting-edge low carbon vehicle technology is crucial to ensuring we have a robust supply chain that enables the future of the UK automotive industry.

“The wide range of projects awarded funding is proof that there isn’t one answer to reducing transport emissions. We must continue to collaborate across sectors in order to boost innovation in many aspects of the industry so we can take advantage of export opportunities to other markets.”

Other successful projects receiving funding are:

• Tata Motors European Technical Centre: The ZETE project is an ultra-clean engine that reduces emissions in high pollutant sectors, including heavy haulage, rail and shipping.


• Unipart Powertrain Applications: The H1perChain project will strengthen the UK’s battery industry by providing a cost-effective route for UK-manufactured batteries into domestic and export markets.


• Caterpillar: A joint project with AVID Technology to develop a fully electrified construction machine.


• YASA: The EV-LIFT project aims to produce a best-in-class Electronic Drive Unit (EDU) for next generation Battery Electric Vehicles (BEVs).