Opportunities in the low carbon vehicle sector

For centuries, engineers have had a love affair with the internal combustion engine. Since its inception in 1680, it has represented power, ingenuity and achievement. But soon the much-loved icon of the motoring industry could be replaced in the UK’s affections by novel, lower-carbon technologies.

This shift will create a new breed of engineer and develop significant growth in the UK. Currently, the industry employs around 140,000 people in 3,100 businesses. It accounts for six per cent of UK manufacturing employment and is a fundamental part of the country’s economy, adding a value of around £9.5bn.

An oil crisis, followed by a financial crisis, has taken its toll on the sector. But the biggest challenge is yet to come. Today, around 19 per cent of the UK’s domestic CO2 emissions come from road vehicles. To meet the government’s goal of reducing emissions by 26 per cent over the next 10 years, vehicles must be largely decarbonised by 2050 and an upgraded transport infrastructure put in place.