The Government has launched its latest research and development competition, supported by a £20m fund, to find the most promising electric vehicle technology innovations.
Businesses can apply for a grant from the fund if they can show the innovation is able to: improve zero emission vehicle (ZEV) range capability; increase adoption of small commercial ZEVs; support transition to zero emission for special use vehicles; improve ZEV user experience or improve sustainability of ZEVs.
Among the previous winners is a zero emission ambulance prototype for London Ambulance Service. Designed by ULEMCo, the ambulance can reach speeds of 90 mph and travel an average of 200 miles a day.
Another successful bidder was tech start-up Urban Foresight, which was given £3m to develop pop-up chargers that rise up out of the pavement to provide a discreet, safe and low-cost EV charging solution to those without off-street parking.
According to the Government the investment will help ensure the UK remains a world leader in EV design and manufacture.
Transport Secretary Grant Shapps said, “Investing in innovation is crucial in decarbonising transport, which is why I’m delighted to see creative zero-emission projects across the UK come to life.
“The funding announced today will help harness some of the brightest talent in the UK tech industry, encouraging businesses to become global leaders in EV innovation, creating jobs and accelerating us towards our net-zero ambitions.”
Simon Edmonds, deputy executive chair and chief business officer, Innovate UK added, “Innovations to increase the uptake of zero-emission vehicles will make our air cleaner while supporting innovative UK businesses.
“Innovate UK has played a crucial role in helping businesses bring their innovations towards reality and we urge those innovators with bright ideas to apply for this vital funding.”
