Prized pioneers

Now in their second year,

have once again celebrated the achievements of universities and technology companies throughout the country.

In conjunction with its main sponsor, BAE Systems, The Engineer presented winners in eight categories with awards for this year's most innovative and successful projects. BBC technology correspondent, Rory Cellan-Jones, hosted the awards, which were held at the Royal Society on October 3. 

The Hotfire Project, run by UCL, Loughborough University, Lotus Engineering and Continental Powertrain, won this year’s Automotive Award for collaboration in the automotive sector. The group has developed a concept-car engine that combines direct spark ignition and variable valve operations to significantly reduce carbon dioxide emissions.

The award for Energy Technology went to Suleiman Sharkh, senior lecturer in engineering sciences at Southampton University, and Mike Yuratich, managing director of TSL Technology. Their innovative use of rare earth magnets in their new design of rim-driven marine engines has been a breakthrough for underwater engine performance.