The Niche Vehicle Research & Development Programme is based around the established Niche Vehicle Network, an informal network of niche vehicle manufacturers, their supply chain and specialist technology suppliers based in the UK.
Advantage West Midlands and the Technology Strategy Board sponsor the programme, which is designed to foster innovation through collaborative Research and Development based on low carbon technologies applicable to the Niche Automotive Sector.
Cenex, Centre of Excellence in Low Carbon and Fuel Cell technologies manage the programme which offers grants for collaborative research projects. The programme runs for 2.5 years until April 2012, aiming to fund at least 15 projects made up of at least 30 collaborating companies and specialist suppliers.
Costs for Research and Development often prohibit small manufacturers from improving their products and processes. Niche Vehicle is designed to overcome these obstacles to development and assist manufacturers in investing in R&D, with the aim of ensuring their continuing success in a demanding market place.
Next Call For Bids open NOW 1st April 2011- 31st May 2011
