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Business secretary supports research centre
Business Secretary Sajid Javid welcomed ambitious plans for a world-beating automotive research centre at Bristol and Bath Science Park during a recent trip to the region.
The proposal by the University of Bath for the £50m facility has the potential to put the UK on the front foot for automotive innovations globally, as well as bringing investment and jobs to the region. Research into automotive propulsion technologies will support student studies and upskill the current regional workforce.
Javid welcomed the plans saying the facility “demonstrates the determination of our auto sector to maintain its position as world-leader”.
He added: “Government and industry is already working together on research and developing low-carbon propulsion and driverless cars technology, but we can do more to help universities and industry collaborate to ensure we have the right skills for a 21st century auto industry and give us a stronger competitive edge.
“I’ve asked my team to continue to work with the university on this idea and hopefully together we can identify the necessary sources of funding to get this off the ground.”
Bath University was recognised as one of the UK’s leading automotive propulsion groups in 2015. Commenting on the proposal, Vice President (Implementation) Steve Egan said: “The planned structure and operation of this proposed institute will be unique in the UK.
“This industry-led facility would compete on a global scale in the automotive propulsion arena, with a model of open access to state of the art facilities. The range and depth of capabilities in the Institute would make it truly unique to the UK and help ensure the UK maintains and expands its global position within the automotive sector.”
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