A cross-section of the UK motor industry, including volume manufacturers, niche vehicle producers and component suppliers, met for the first time yesterday to form the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders’ (SMMT) new Electric Vehicle Group.
Seeking to interact with government, stakeholders and industry both in the UK and internationally, the Electric Vehicle Group will promote a collaborative industry-wide approach to the development of ultra-low carbon technologies.
“The UK has a strong emerging electric vehicle industry which will benefit from working together on a strategic approach to the issues that affect each and every one of them,” said SMMT chief executive, Paul Everitt. “The development of ultra low carbon vehicles provides an important opportunity for the UK motor industry and SMMT is determined to provide the support mechanisms needed to maximise the value to our national economy.”
Members include volume manufacturers like BMW, General Motors, Mercedes and Nissan as well as suppliers like Corus and Lightning. There are also representative groups involved such as the Welsh Automotive Forum.
The diverse group of companies will act to develop and protect the UK’s role in the globally competitive field of automotive, addressing a wide-range of issues including government policy and legislation, research and development, technical regulations, market development, supporting infrastructure and consumer incentives.
Nissan announced that its week that it aims to become the leading world manufacturer of electric vehicles, with a target of producing 100,000 units across three models by 2012.
