The Government has opened a competition to uncover new innovations in zero-emission vehicles, backed by £20m funding.

The competition invites entrants to showcase solutions that address challenges associated with the uptake of zero-emission vehicles in the UK

The competition opens from next Monday 15 March 2021 and invites entrants to showcase solutions that address challenges associated with the uptake of zero-emission vehicles (ZEVs) in the UK, such as developing zero-emission emergency vehicles, charging technology or EV battery recycling.

Specifically, the competition is seeking solutions that address challenges, such as improving ZEV range capability or increasing adoption of small commercial ZEVs. Winners will receive a share of the funding to help develop their solution.

The funding will help the UK transition towards all new cars and vans being zero emission and is announced as the Government also publishes its response to the consultation on ending the sale of petrol and diesel cars and vans; the latter cements its commitment for all new cars and vans to be zero-emission at the tailpipe by 2035.

Transport Secretary Grant Shapps said: “Investing in innovation is crucial in decarbonising transport, which is why I’m delighted to see creative zero-emission projects across the UK come to life.

“The funding announced today will help harness some of the brightest talent in the UK tech industry, encouraging businesses to become global leaders in EV innovation, creating jobs and accelerating us towards our net-zero ambitions.”

Among the previous winners is a zero-emission ambulance prototype for London Ambulance Service. Designed by ULEMCo, the ambulance can reach speeds of 90mph and travel an average of 200 miles a day with zero emissions.

Another successful bidder was tech start-up Urban Foresight, which was given £3m to develop pop-up chargers that rise up out of the pavement to provide a discreet, safe and low-cost EV charging solution to those without off-street parking.

David Watson, CEO and founder of EV smart charging company Ohme, welcomed the latest funding for innovations in EVs: “If we’re to meet the UK’s ambitious 2030 climate goals, we need to see much more concerted investment in innovative technologies that can accelerate our progress towards electrification. So it’s encouraging to see the government supporting businesses who are leading the charge here and making the EV revolution a reality,” he said.

“But it’s important to remember that the electric vehicles themselves are just one piece of the puzzle. In addition to vehicle technology, charging infrastructure and battery production, we also need to prioritise investments in smart charging solutions that will manage demand, balance the grid and facilitate a smooth transition to zero-carbon transport.”

For more details of the Government’s new £20m fund for EV innovations, click here.