University of Warwick chosen as hub for low carbon automotive initiative

THE Advance Propulsion Centre (APC) has announced that it is to base its hub at the University of Warwick.

The APC is committing up to £200m in UK propulsion technology projects this year and the central Hub together with a national spoke structure – at locations yet to be announced – will provide the UK automotive industry with resources and facilities to develop advanced propulsion systems and supply chains.

The aim of the APC, in partnership with industry, is to secure and grow more than 30,000 UK jobs in the research, development and production of vehicle powertrains as the industry transitions to a low carbon future for all modes of transportation.

Warwick was chosen after “an open and rigorous” selection process overseen by an independent, industry-led assessment panel.

The hub facility is due to open in the autumn.

APC chief executive Tony Pixton said: “The Advanced Propulsion Centre will support the UK automotive industry to become a global leader in the research, development and production of advanced propulsion systems.

“Through our hub and spoke network we will enable collaboration between SMEs, suppliers and vehicle manufacturers to create new powertrain solutions that build UK capability.

“The competition to identify the location for the APC Hub has re-enforced the fact that the UK is strategically placed to be a worldwide centre for low carbon propulsion systems, R&D and production.

“The University of Warwick will become the location of the hub for the APC, at the centre of a Propulsion Nation, offering world class facilities and expertise as part of the ten year programme of activity.

“The APC has already committed more than £130m of new investment into the UK economy since it opened for business earlier this year. By the end of the year an additional round of project funding will allocate up to a further £75m as part of the rapid action being undertaken by the APC team.”

The Advanced Propulsion Centre was created from the collaboration between industry and government through the Automotive Council. 

Business secretary Vince Cable, co-chair of the Automotive Council said: “The Advanced Propulsion Centre is spearheading the UK’s drive to develop new greener engines. The £1bn investment we are making alongside industry will safeguard more than 30,000 jobs.
 
“The news that the University of Warwick will host the headquarters for the centre means we can accelerate our research into the next generation of automotive technology.
 
“The government’s industrial strategy is backing the auto sector as it goes from strength to strength. We are providing the right environment to give businesses the confidence to invest and create high skilled jobs.”
 
University of Warwick vice chancellor Nigel Thrift said: “We are delighted to be selected to host the APC hub.

“The University of Warwick’s own commitment to a multi-disciplinary research programme focused on global challenges means that we will provide not just a home but significant opportunities that will help the APC create a range of effective research partnerships.”