Government gets behind automotive SMEs
The UK Government is scaling up its support to the automotive industry by hosting more UK Pavilions than ever before at major trade exhibitions, helping British innovators to lead in the global race to reduce transport emissions.
Organised through the Advanced Propulsion Centre’s (APC) International Events Programme, the UK Pavilions are part of the wider Road to Zero Strategy which outlines ambitions of a carbon-free future. The Programme is designed to help the UK become a world leader in the development and commercialisation of low carbon vehicle technology, promoting the best of British in key international markets – including Japan, USA and Europe.
Small businesses developing low carbon vehicle technologies could receive financial and logistical support – such as stand design, build and marketing – to promote their innovations on a global stage. Further support will be provided through the APC’s connection with the Department for International Trade to facilitate trade relations with key decision makers from vehicle manufacturers to Tier 1 suppliers.
Ian Constance, chief executive of the Advanced Propulsion Centre, said: “The collaboration between major vehicle manufacturers, UK innovators and automotive SMEs is key to creating the enabling technologies which will make a carbon-free future a reality. However, the cost to a business attending key events in the global automotive calendar can be in the region of £100,000-plus once you factor in flights, hotel rooms, stand design and build.
“For small technology developers this can often be out of their reach and therefore can make engaging with potential customers, such as OEMs and suppliers, very difficult. The International Events Programme removes this barrier for entry, significantly subsidising the costs and putting innovators right in front of the biggest names in the business.”
With the first UK Pavilion taking place in April, the Electric and Hybrid Battery Show, Stuttgart, there’s not long for businesses to register their interest. Companies specialising in the development of electric vehicle and low carbon technologies which would like to be considered for the 2020 international delegation can register their interest with the APC by contacting Lynda Grice on [email protected].
