Automotive
The automotive industry is a rapidly evolving sector that is at the forefront of technological innovation. As one of the largest industries in the world, it covers all aspects of automotive design, development, manufacturing, and sales. This industry also plays a key role in transportation, which is essential for economic growth and social development.
The automotive industry is constantly developing new technologies to improve the performance, safety, and fuel efficiency of vehicles. They are investing heavily in the development of electric vehicles and other sustainable transportation solutions. The automotive sector is highly competitive, with a wide range of companies, including OEMs, logistics and constructors, constantly developing new products and services so as to gain an edge over their rivals.
The automotive industry is a dynamic and growing industry. To enable this growth to occur, automotive focused research is a high priority. As a multi-discipline area, it involves scientists and engineers from a wide range of backgrounds including automotive, mechanical, and material engineers, data scientists, material, and battery innovators as well as environmental scientists.
Automotive research is commissioned and utilised by a variety of organisations, including:
- Manufacturers: To inform their product development, marketing, and other business strategies
- Suppliers of automotive components and materials: To understand the latest trends and technologies, and to identify new opportunities for product and process innovation
- Government agencies: To develop and implement regulations and innovation funding streams, and to assess the impact of the automotive industry on the economy and society
- Academic institutions: Carry out research to advance knowledge and develop new products, materials and processes in the automotive field. This research can be used by automakers, suppliers, government agencies, and other stakeholders to make informed decisions
Automotive industry research is essential for the continued growth and innovation of the automotive industry. By understanding the trends and technologies that are shaping the industry, manufacturers, suppliers, government agencies, and other stakeholders can make informed decisions that will help them to succeed in the future.
Below are just a few examples of the many collaborative projects that are shaping the automotive industry in the UK and Europe. It is an exciting time, and there are many opportunities for businesses and individuals to get involved.
PI-KEM works with a wide range of customers in the automotive industry, including OEMs, Tier 1 suppliers, and research institutes. We are committed to providing our customers with the highest quality products and services to accelerate the automotive industry's transition to a more connected and sustainable future.
Industry Insights
- The rise of electric vehicles: Electric vehicles are becoming increasingly popular, due to concerns about climate change and rising fuel prices
- The development of autonomous vehicles: Self-driving vehicles are still in their early stages of development, but they have the potential to revolutionise the automotive industry
- The increasing importance of connectivity: Vehicles are becoming increasingly connected to the internet, opening new possibilities for services and applications
Innovation Trends
- The shift to electric vehicles (EVs): The UK and EU have ambitious targets for the adoption of EVs, this is driving significant investment in EV research, development, and production. Many vehicle manufacturers are investing heavily in EV production, and new EV models are being launched all the time
- The rise of autonomous driving: Autonomous driving technology is developing rapidly, and the UK and EU are at the forefront of this research and development. This technology is expected to have a major impact on the automotive industry, both in terms of vehicle design and manufacturing, as well as transportation and logistics
- The increasing importance of software: Software is playing an increasingly important role in vehicles, from controlling powertrains and safety systems to providing infotainment and connectivity features. The technology required must be reliable, safe, and designed with space-saving, sustainability, and affordability as a priority
- The need for sustainable manufacturing: The automotive industry is under increasing pressure to reduce its environmental impact, leading to a focus on sustainable manufacturing practices, such as the use of renewable energy and recycled materials
Academic/ Industrial Partnerships
Examples of government, academic and commercial partnerships in the UK and European automotive research industry include:
- The UK's Advanced Propulsion Centre (APC) is a partnership between government, industry, and academia that supports the development of low-carbon propulsion technologies for vehicles. The APC has funded over 120 projects involving over 300 partners, with a total investment of over £1 billion. Click here to read article
- HORIBA MIRA is a global provider of engineering, research, and test services to the automotive, defence, aerospace, and rail sectors. HORIBA MIRA works with a wide range of partners, including vehicle manufacturers, suppliers, and universities, to develop and test new automotive technologies. Click here to read article
- The Towards Zero Emission Road Transport (2Zero) is a programme funded by Horizon 2020 and builds on the European Green Vehicles Initiative which followed the European Green Cars Initiative. 2Zero is focused on developing Battery EVs and Fuel Cell EVs as an integrated approach to support the move to climate-neutrality. Click here to read article
