Automotive funding to create 2,230 green jobs

Up to 2,230 new jobs are expected to be created in automotive research and manufacturing following the latest round of investment in low carbon technologies.

The UK government has announced it has invested £33m in next-generation technologies in the latest round of funding, through the Advanced Propulsion Centre. This is part of the government’s modern Industrial Strategy.

Projects range from the development of 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, visited McLaren Group in Woking. McLaren Applied Technologies is the lead partner in the ESCAPE project, which is receiving £9.8m funding, to create a complete end-to-end supply chain for a key component to be used in all electrified 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.’

Other successful projects receiving funding include Tata Motors European Technical Centre Limited. The ZETE project is an ultra-clean engine that reduces emissions in high pollutant sectors, including heavy haulage, rail and shipping.

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.’