Ultra-low emission vehicle technology is developing fast. The Government is committed to supporting the rapid pace of change in this area; and to this end, is contributing to the funding of a range of research and development activities. 

The Low Carbon Vehicles Innovation Platform

The Government’s programme of research and development for low carbon vehicle technologies is delivered through the Technology Strategy Board’s ‘Low Carbon Vehicles Innovation Platform’ (LCVIP). Funded by the Departments for Transport, Department for Business, Innovation and Skills, the Technology Strategy Board and the Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council, the platform was launched in September 2007 and has since delivered a wide range of research projects targeted at low and ultra-low vehicle technologies.

The LCVIP aims:

• To reduce carbon emissions arising from vehicles in domestic and international markets;
• To accelerate the introduction of low-carbon vehicle technologies; and
• To help the UK automotive sector benefit from growing demand for low carbon vehicles.

All projects have to be match funded by the private sector. Last September, through an LCVIP competition for collaborative R&D projects, £24 million of Government funding was awarded to six innovative projects. In June this year, £500,000 was awarded to six British companies to carry out feasibility studies into recycling and re-use of batteries for low and ultra low carbon vehicles.

More details on the LCVIP.

As part of the LCVIP, the Technology Strategy Board’s ‘Ultra Low Carbon Vehicle Demonstration project’ is trialling over 340 electric and plug-in-hybrid cars in eight locations around the UK. Data is already being collected for 132 cars. This includes five Plug-in hybrid Toyota Prius cars, which have joined the Government’s Car and Despatch Agency. The trial will provide important data on the real world use and performance of electric vehicles, driver behaviour and recharging issues.

The Low Carbon Vehicle Public Procurement Programme

The Government’s Low Carbon Vehicle Public Procurement Programme (LCVPPP) is providing funding to support the trial of over 200 electric and low emission vans in a range of public fleets. The LCVPPP is allowing for the collection of ‘real-world’ data about the vehicles’ performance and usage; helping to drive ongoing technological development; as well as demonstrate the existing capabilities of these vehicles.

The Low Carbon Vehicle Public Procurement Programme

The Government’s Low Carbon Vehicle Public Procurement Programme (LCVPPP) was set up in 2007 to help stimulate the market for lower carbon vehicles. It has provided financial assistance to public sector organisations wishing to procure innovative, lower carbon vehicles for their fleets.

• The Low Carbon Vehicle Public Procurement Programme Support for low carbon vans