SMMT taking entries for Automotive Award for Innovation

The SMMT is receiving entries for its Automotive Award for Innovation, which recognises UK-developed concepts and technologies with the potential to transform the automotive industry.

The Award – in partnership with the Advanced Propulsion Centre (APC), sponsored by GKN, and supported by The Times – promotes the UK automotive sector’s huge capacity for innovation.

A judging panel of industry experts will be looking for products, technologies, processes or systems that could transform the UK’s automotive industry for the better. Last year’s winner was Torotrak Group’s Flybrid KERS, a system that transfers energy from a vehicle’s motion back to the drive system to power the vehicle. The system is smaller, lighter and cheaper than a conventional battery electric hybrid. Winners from previous years include Gordon Murray Design, Jaguar Land Rover, Optare and Ford.

Mike Hawes, SMMT chief executive, said: “One of the drivers behind the current success of the UK automotive industry is a strong pipeline of innovation – a vital component of its continuing drive for global leadership in vehicle development. In light of the UK automotive industry’s recent successes, we expect to see some exceptional entries this year.”

The deadline for entries is midnight on 28 August. Entry is free and open to any manufacturer, supplier or developer, whether as an individual, team, department, or a submission on behalf of an organisation. After a shortlisting process, successful entrants will present their innovations to a panel of industry experts. The winner will be announced at the SMMT Annual Dinner on 24 November, in front of more than 1,000 leading industry figures.