Britain’s automotive sector is to receive nearly £130 million of investment for zero-emission vehicle technology, with ministers saying the package will support more than 1,800 high-value manufacturing jobs across the UK.
The funding includes almost £65 million from government, matched by industry. Auto firms and research and development partners have been awarded nearly £50 million in public money to help build and produce future zero-emission vehicle technologies at scale.
The Government said the investment is being delivered through the Modern Industrial Strategy and the DRIVE35 programme. DRIVE35 is described by ministers as the largest government investment in the UK car industry of the post-war era, with £4 billion committed to 2035 to accelerate electrification.
Projects supported by the latest package include work linked to self-driving vehicles and more affordable electric vehicles. Ministers said the funding is intended to help companies scale in the UK while supporting jobs in manufacturing and supply chains.
The Government highlighted Gateshead and Crewe among the places expected to benefit, naming Turntide Technologies and Bentley as flagship companies receiving support. It said the North East and West Midlands remain powerhouse regions for automotive manufacturing.
A further £17 million is being put into nine connected and automated mobility Pathfinder projects. The Government cited industry estimates that the connected and automated mobility sector could create tens of thousands of high-quality jobs and contribute about £66 billion to the economy by 2040.
Industry Minister Blair McDougall said the investment would secure skilled jobs, strengthen manufacturing areas and help ensure the next generation of vehicles are designed and built in the UK.