APC26: Industrialising Net-Zero Automotive Technology

UK-registered businesses can apply for a share of up to £40 million to fund late-stage research and development (R&D) projects. These projects will help accelerate the UK’s transition to zero-emission vehicles and promote a net-zero automotive future. The competition is designed to support collaborative R&D efforts focused on the design, development, and manufacture of innovative technology. 

Scope 

The project must: 

• Contribute to the UK’s strategic goals and direction towards achieving a zero-emission transport vision, in line with the Automotive Council’s roadmaps.
• Develop on-vehicle technologies or related manufacturing processes that aid the transition to a net-zero automotive industry.  
• Support the growth, transition, and security of the UK’s automotive supply chain by enhancing capabilities while improving productivity, efficiency, and competitiveness. 
• Aim for post-project commercialisation.  
• Ensure that a minimum of 70% of the project’s total eligible costs is incurred by commercial organisations. 
• Conduct all project work within the UK. 

The project must also advance technologies in one or more of the following areas: 

• Batteries, their components, management, and integration systems. 
• Fuel cell systems and associated balance of plant. 
• Electric machines and associated driveline technologies. 
• Power electronics. 
• Internal combustion engines for on-road applications that aim to achieve zero harmful tailpipe emissions using non-fossil fuels. 
• Internal combustion engines for off-road applications that support a transition to zero emissions using non-fossil fuels. 
• Methods and processes for lightweighting materials. 
• Hydrogen storage and management systems.