The Electronic Virtual Gearbox technology confers benefits similar to a mechanical gearbox, providing electric vehicles a wider performance window for their energy source. It enables batteries to be up to 20% smaller, reducing costs, mass and raw materials. Additionally, the technology is safer, can improve brake regeneration efficiency, and has applications in wider transport, PEMD and power grids.

The project builds upon three previous NVN projects: EVG Feasibility, PoC bench-top EV dynamometer and Late Stage micro mobility powertrain development. The technology will be demonstrated objectively through hardware-in-the-loop testing and subjectively evaluated onboard a micro-EV platform from class-leading bomobility.

The transition to zero emission presents many challenges, however for NVMs, the hardest to overcome is the implementation of an affordable energy store that packages within the highly optimised platform. Ariel’s success has been based on the performance afforded by lightweight construction, so it is imperative that the core values are not lost through electrification. Can the introduction of a novel design of cooled battery pack accelerate NVMs transition to zero emission? This project aims to prove that this vehicle can be produced with a well-engineered electric powertrain that delivers exciting performance and sufficient range without compromising Ariel’s core attributes.

CALLUM are leading a consortium with Nyobolt and Codem Composites to deliver a lightweight, rapid charge, HV electric ATV with a view of creating product that not only equals but betters the performance attributes of the ICE dominated ATVs on the market. The concept will look to deliver a composite, structural battery case and chassis with additive manufactured nodes and a game changing charge rate facilitating true rapid charge.

The CitiPod will provide a zero-emission mass micromobility solution. It will combine e-bike technology with leading-edge automotive design and engineering techniques, resulting in a safe, stable, weather-protected active travel vehicle. It has a similar comfort level and protection as a microcar while still conforming to UK and EU e-bike regulations. It can travel on cycleways and roads, with a space footprint of less than a third of an average car. Its ultra-lightweight construction (sub-60kg) makes it highly manoeuvrable and minimises wear and tear on roads. Passenger and Cargo versions will be developed (using common chassis and drivetrain).

Solo is designed to bridge the gap between bicycles and cars, helping to reduce congestion and carbon emissions in busy urban environments, whilst encouraging active travel.

The Solo bike will focus on creating the best year-round accessible experience for personal transport, within the public bike share market. It has four wheels for greater stability, a canopy that offers weather protection, space for shopping / luggage, or a passenger (one adult or two children) and will be electric pedal assist.

Additionally, there will be potential to expand the platform for alternative use cases including last mile delivery.

To meet the needs of the rapidly evolving mid to final-mile delivery market, LSCPTech is developing an ultra-efficient modular electric vehicle (UltraMEV). UltraMEV is based on a novel modular ultra-lightweight (classification L7E-C) quadricycle platform to disrupt mid to final mile deliveries.

This project combines the natural fibre composite (NFC) manufacturing and development expertise of LSCPTech, the integrated electric motor module technology from Empel and expert EV integration knowledge from Rockfort to accelerate the UK's transition to clean, efficient mid to final mile delivery.