Birmingham to host ‘world-first’ vehicle summit

Birmingham is to host a zero emission vehicles summit backed by the Government that will showcase the expertise and opportunities in the Midlands and the UK.

The event is being claimed as a world-first and follows on from a Government commitment for the UK to be at the forefront of the design and manufacturing of zero emission vehicles, making all new cars and vans effectively emission-free by 2040.

Business Secretary Greg Clark said: “The Midlands has a rich automotive heritage and the growth of high-tech manufacturing across the region continues to drive investment into the region, produce highly skilled jobs and boost economic growth – making it an ideal place to lead the world in zero emission vehicles.

“Our modern Industrial Strategy sets out plans for the transition to ultra-low and zero emissions vehicle technology and this summit, bringing together global leaders in the green vehicle revolution, is an important step on the road to making that ambition a reality.”

The summit will bring together policy makers, industry experts and opinion formers from around globe to tackle carbon emissions and to find ways to improve air quality. It will take place at Birmingham’s International Conference Centre on September 11.

The summit will continue the following day at the low carbon vehicle event Cenex-LCV, which is held at Millbrook Proving Grounds near Milton Keynes. The event features innovative technology from international companies and is an established fixture of the automotive calendar.

The Government has also confirmed it is to continue with the Plug in Car Grant and Van Grant, which forms part of £1.5bn being spent on ultra-low emission vehicles to 2021.

Separately, cycling and walking minister Jesse Norman will shortly issue a call for evidence as part of considerations on how to reduce emissions for last mile deliveries. One of the measures to be looked at is providing grants or other financial incentives to support the use of e-cargo bikes.

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