The Advanced Propulsion Centre: Creating UK Capability in Low-carbon Automotive Technologies (Competition 2) is intended to develop technologies that are primarily ‘on-vehicle’, rather than those that reside off the vehicle, such as charging infrastructure. The projects are expected to strengthen UK capability and develop and grow the UK’s propulsion systems supply chain.
Additionally, projects must demonstrate technologies that deliver significant reductions in vehicle CO2 or other emissions compared to current best-in class technologies.
The programme has a total budget of £75 million to fundcollaborative R&D projects. Successful applicants can attract grantfunding towards their eligible project costs. The total costs should be between £5 million and £40 million. The funding will be split between industrial research, with a business partner attracting 50% public funding for their project costs (60% for SMEs), and experimental development, with a business partner attracting 25% funding (35% for a medium-sized company and 45% for small enterprises).
Funding will be available to support capitalcosts for new pilot production processesto support the research into a proposedmanufacturing solution. Test-rigmodifications and mule vehicles todevelop and prove the performance of thenew system will also be eligible.
The projects need to demonstrate the development of powertrain technologies based around one or more of the following technology areas:
- Internal combustion engines.
- Lightweight powertrain structures.
- Electric machines and power electronics.
- Energy storage and energy management.
- Other propulsion systems.
Projects must be business-led andcollaborative. Each projectmust include a vehicle manufacturer and an SME. The sponsors are encouraging companies working outside the automotive sector that can bring technical knowledge and expertise to a consortium to participate in this competition.
Only UK-based companies and research organisations are eligible to apply.
Please note that you will need to pre-register your intent to submit. The deadline for registration is at noon on 25 June 2014 and the deadline for full applications is at noon on 2 July 2014.
For more information, including background and eligibility criteria, please visit the TSB website or contact your Research Support team.