Toyota leads government funded electric mobility project

Toyota is leading a £30 million project to develop a new lightweight battery electric vehicle, which will see cutting-edge innovations including an integrated solar roof for enhanced energy efficiency, advanced connectivity and lightweight, sustainable materials designed for recyclability. 

The £30 million project includes a £15 million grant from the government, government's DRIVE35 programme via the Advanced Propulsion Centre (APC).

The project includes key partners such as the University of Derby, Elm Mobility and Savcor.

Rik Adams, Innovation Delivery Director, The Advanced Propulsion Centre UK (APC), said: "APC is very proud to be able to support Toyota with this Electric Vehicle (EV) urban mobility project, which embodies much of what DRIVE35 aims to support - innovation, UK competitiveness, productivity, and zero emission vehicles. As an integral part of the UK automotive industry, we are delighted that Toyota is partnering with some of our innovative SME businesses, such as ELM, and our world-class academics from the University of Derby to deliver a cutting-edge vehicle concept designed, developed and tested in the UK."

Industry Minister Chris McDonald said: "This shows the power of our partnership with industry, driving innovation and helping investors build a globally competitive electric vehicle supply chain in the UK as we deliver on our Plan for Change. 

"Economic growth is our number one priority, and by funding our world leading auto sector our modern Industrial Strategy is creating the right conditions for increased investment, bringing growth, supporting jobs, and opportunities to every part of the UK."