centre of excellence

for low carbon and fuel cell technologies

The Niche Vehicle Research & Development Programme (NVN) is managed by Cenex and the Niche Vehicle Network

Morgan 3 Wheeler launched Geneva 2011The Niche Vehicle Network is an independent association of over 100 niche vehicle manufacturers, specialist technology companies and supply chain. Established in 2005 in the West Midlands, the Network is free to join and all events/seminars free to attend/exhibit.  Any relevant company can apply but members must be accepted by the NVN Executive and meet the membership criteria. Email us for more details

The Niche Vehicle R&D Programme provides support and grant funding to groups of companies active in the niche vehicle sector, focusing on central UK companies. It promotes the development and application of new technology to take advantage of the increasing market opportunities for lower carbon vehicles. By bringing together independent vehicle manufacturers, system suppliers, automotive technology companies and HEIs, to collaborate on the innovative application of technologies in low-volume vehicle production.  Since its inception in 2008, the programme has been a catalyst for over 104 different business collaborations and has assisted the development of 9 prototype vehicles and 3 process improvement projects. 

Picture Top Left- the Morgan 3 Wheeler project launched at Geneva 2011

 

The Niche Vehicle R&D programme works by encouraging collaborative research and development within small to medium sized niche automotive companies.  Supported by contributions from Advantage West Midlands and the Technology Strategy Board, the programme offers grants for R&D and support to form consortia.  The entire project is  managed by Cenex, Centre of Excellence in Low Carbon & Fuel Cell Technologies. All grant funding decisions are made by a NVN independent private sector executive board. which includes at least 3 independent TSB assessors.  

Read more about our projects or see some videos of some complete vehicles developed as part of our research and development programme.

Login to the NVN members area which contains more information not accessible to the general public.  If you think your company could already be a member, please visit our members list & register to access members resources, sign up for events and more.  If you're not already a member, read about us and join us now.

Picture bottom left - the Zytek EVito Taxi collaborative project wins its class at Future Car Challenge 2010. 

 

News

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CUE launches Niche Innovation Scheme

27/01/2012 10:15:59 - CUE launches Niche Innovation Scheme

The Niche Innovation Scheme, managed by Coventry University Enterprises, is now open for applications.

The ERDF funded scheme offers West Midlands SMEs R&D grants of between £4,000 and £20,000 to develop new products for the Niche Vehicle Sector.

Grants must be used to cover the cost of purchasing services from established research partners such as Universities or Technology Organisations to develop new and innovative products.

Events

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06/03/2012 - NVN Symposium

06/03/2012 - NVN Symposium

On 6th March, the Niche Vehicle Network will be hosting a one-day conference at Gaydon Heritage Centre. The purpose is to bring together delegates and speakers from the UK’s niche vehicle manufacturers, specialist suppliers and technology companies for a lively day of presentations and debates covering:·        

  • Niche market trends, future legislation and government support
  • Developments in lightweight chassis and body structures
  • Powertrain technology for hybrid and electric vehicles  
  • Development of successful UK niche brands
We have already secured several prominent speakers and the full programme will be published on our website soon.
 
In the meantime, we are offering NVN members and selected guests the opportunity to pre-register and secure a free delegate place at this unique event.
 
To register, email us at NVN@cenex.co.uk and we'll send you a registration form.