Pioneering Innovation
Making Britain a leader in automotive innovation, developing and delivering next-generation vehicle technologies that benefit society, the economy and environment
The automotive sector is driven by innovation – continually developing new technologies to make mobility safer, greener, easier and more comfortable.
UK Automotive itself is a significant driver of research and development. On average the sector invests around £3 billion a year in developing new technologies – about 11% of all UK R&D spend – and Britain is home to 22 separate automotive research and development centres. Furthermore, the UK has a world-class reputation as a place to develop new technology. In the latest Automotive Council UK International Competitiveness survey, all the factors that influence investment decisions, university-industry collaboration was rated as the UK’s biggest strength. Britain is also rated more highly than the majority of EU nations on university-industry R&D, and above average globally. This is complemented by the UK’s unique motorsport pedigree, which drives competitive and ‘challenge-led’ engineering, helping to spur innovation across the entire sector.
In addition to developing new technology, UK Automotive plays a pioneering role in enhancing vehicle safety and security, protecting both people and property while delivering essential mobility.
SMMT’s role
SMMT works tirelessly to support and promote automotive innovation in the UK. In addition to ongoing work to ensure the UK remains internationally competitive for automotive investment, SMMT operates multiple committees and working groups designed to bring stakeholders together to support cooperation and collaboration.
External engagement
SMMT collaborates closely with key organisations, including participation in the Automotive Council, Innovate UK and the Advanced Propulsion Centre, to ensure the voice of the industry is represented and heard.
Key committees and working groups
- Connected and Automated Vehicles Forum
- Engineering Committee
- Innovation and Engineering Group
- Assisted and Automated Driving Technical Working Group
- CAV Technical Working Group
- Connectivity Technical Working Group
- Fuel Cell Electric Vehicle Task Force
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SMMT’s comprehensive membership base covers every aspect of the automotive industry, from vehicles to components, trailers to aftermarket; and from large global corporations to small and medium enterprises. The scope of interest of our members also varies dramatically, ranging from direct, partial or indirect involvement in the manufacturing of vehicles and components, to design engineering and distribution, and a variety of other services aligned to the industry.
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