The Niche Vehicle Network is one of, if not the, largest and most diverse cluster of niche vehicle producers in the world. The network is characterized by low volume production, specialized components, bespoke body and chassis and (in the case of sports cars) a significant proportion of hand-built or hand-finished parts companies.
One area of significant activity within the network is the production of specialist light and heavy commercial vehicles (from trucks and vans) with manufacturers such as Modec (electric vans and delivery vehicles) and Dennis Eagle (refuse trucks). Niche Vehicle members are also brand leaders in the motorcycle industry, with Norton and Red Cougar amongst our members.
In addition, there are a number of manufacturers of niche premium brand vehicles and sports cars, such as Aston Martin, Morgan, Westfield, Raw, Great British Sportscars and Delta Motorsport. These manufacturers, along with some of their supply chain companies and technology providers, are members of the network. Members login to access the NVN Supplier Directory.
Niche vehicle manufacturers operate within a well-established and well-defined UK and (in many cases) global market, and have also developed some unique capabilities (such as speed of reaction to specific customer demand). However, many do find it hard to expand into overseas markets due to different requirements of homologation. This makes exporting and overseas expansion cost prohibitive. Whilst a considerable amount of innovation comes from these niche companies, the risks attached to a full R&D effort and subsequent type approval for a single company can stop them investing and act as a barrier to growth.
The Niche Vehicle Network aims to promote and stimulate R&D collaboration, in order to give companies the ability to not only react to new regulations, innovate and share knowledge but to gain an economy of scale that will allow growth in the lucrative overseas markets. Assisting niche vehicle manufacturers to access to overseas markets is a key focus of the Niche Vehicle Network R&D Programme, click on the link to the left to read more.
The niche manufacturers are served by a significant SME supply base of specialist companies where craft skills remain prevalent. There is significant potential for collaboration and integration within this sector, including opportunities for joint procurement of common parts, shared quality systems and even shared assembly facilities. Companies can explore these opportunities by participating in the Niche Vehicle Network, which is going from strength to strength and offers an excellent and vibrant forum for the sharing of knowledge and formulating of collaborative approaches, demonstrating the passion and innovation that is alive and well in the UK niche vehicle industry. Want to join the network? Download an application form today