Connected & autonomous vehicles at the Cenex LCV show

Richard Morris, Innovation Lead for Connected & Autonomous Vehicles at Innovate UK, writes on developments in CAVs and electric vehicles.

 

Richard writes that automotive electrification and self-driving vehicles are both proceeding through a series of stages: starting in niche applications, then expanding with improved technology, until eventually, vehicles using fossil fuels and human-driven vehicles become the norm. The Cenex LCV show from 12-13 September in Millbrook, Bedfordshire, will feature the latest innovations in both those areas.

His points include:

• electric and self-driving vehicles both began in niche applications such as milk floats and automated factory systems
• they then expanded to electric vans and personal pods on dedicated roadways
• partial mainstream adoptions followed, such as high-end electric cars and driver assistance AI like self-parking
• electric vehicles are now affordable for most car buyers, but full AI driving has not yet reached the mass market

At some point, both will become affordable – the race is on to see which technology becomes the norm first…

Read more at Richard’s Innovate UK blog.

 

If you’re interested in low-emission vehicles, KTN will be holding several events in September and October that may be of interest to you:

IDP15 Competition Briefings – London, Thursday 20th September, and Sunderland, Wednesday 26th September

These events are aimed and business of all sizes (micro, SME and large) academics and local authorities with an interest in low or zero emission vehicles. Organisations who have been involved in any past or current Innovate UK competitions in the automotive space are welcome.

Specialised Vehicle Event – London, Monday 15th October

A dedicated workshop aimed at collaboration building for specialist and large vehicles, and the supply chain which supports them (expression of interest required before 28th September).

Smart, Green and Integrated Transport in H2020: Information and Consortia Building Event 2018 – Birmingham, Thursday 11th October

We will be promoting funding opportunities available for Transport through Horizon 2020, the EU’s largest research and innovation funding programme.