In this project Domin, Aston Martin and Cranfield aim to demonstrate at high technology readiness level (TRL6) key enabling technology to move to a truly optimised 4-corner electric vehicle actuation system. Whilst there has been significant investment in electric motor technology, other key systems (eg braking, suspension, steering) remain undeveloped and reliant on central hydraulic systems. We will demonstrate on-vehicle a highly innovative and integrated solution for a full active suspension and brake-by-wire system, with the potential to unlock significant benefits for a full electric vehicle architecture, including ~10% range extension across a WLTC.

The MACE project builds upon previous successful feasibility study and proof of concept research projects to deliver an ultra-lightweight solution for producing complex, feature rich load bearing structural panels reinforced with recycled carbon fibre. The project will further develop the materials and production processes for cost effectively manufacturing panels capable of being used in structural and semi-structural applications. Production approaches catering for niche to high volume requirements will be considered. A full carbon fibre production readiness BIW of optimized weight, cost and performance will be built and demonstrated on a prototype zero emission Morris Commercial Van, the Morris JE.

Building upon the NVN PoC project and further “real-world” development throughout the APC TDAP Programme, advancing the technical/manufacturing readiness of an aerodynamic energy efficiency concept, to be delivered on a first responder hybrid motorcycle application.

Proven, on high speed demonstrator, to be 69% aerodynamically more efficient than the best production motorcycle the concept significantly improves range.

The collaborators will develop, document and productionise a city motorcycle incorporating the patent granted aerodynamic concept and bolt on hybrid, accelerating the supply chain and manufacturing processes toward full production readiness. The motorcycle will progress to market in 2022 following successful project completion.

Electric taxis have very specific challenges: increased utilisation rates, heavier weight and higher torque. This can be solved in part by more energy-efficient tyres, which have a lower rolling resistance and extend pure EV range, delaying the need to depend on fossil-fuel range extenders.

In this project ENSO, LEVC and ZETI will engineer/demonstrate/test/validate the GEN1-TX tyre for LEVC’s TX electric taxis. We intend to deliver an increased EV range of ≥10% using our tyre. This innovation combines proprietary compounds and lightweight tyre construction that’s not commercialised in this sector, a niche market underserved by leading tyre companies.

iNetic have designed and developed and are now ready to productionise a range traction motors for a wide range of electric vehicle applications.

The motors were designed from the start with a very clear cost down journey consisting of 3 distinct steps, 1 & 2 are complete, this application is for step 3. With each step cost is removed from the BOM and the motor becomes more attractive to volume customers.

Prototype iNetic iEV motors are used in a wide variety of EVs on land and sea, including PR19-1014 11 Ton E-Axle and PR19-1004 HPD EDU.

Clipper Automotive and partners aim to make significant improvements to the air quality in our towns and cities by converting diesel taxis to be 100% electric. Taxis are the biggest single polluting vehicle type in UK cities.

We have designed a system to retrofit London taxis with fully electric drive-train and have built a working prototype. The project will now build a production ready version of a zero-emissions retrofitted London black cab, bring this to market, carrying out real-world tests. We will also complete a full application to TfL for regulatory approval to operate these as licensed cabs in London.

VO is a lightweight EPAC city solar powered taxi for 2 people and cargo with removable battery.

VO embodies the best attributes of car and cycle travel. Legally permitted to use cycle lanes, VO travels at a capped speed of 15.5mph, effectively faster than a car’s average 11.3mph through cities using solar, human power and innovative energy storage system.

VO’s zero-emission, ultra lightweight, 60kg design enables solar power to be reliable and sufficiently powerful for urban travel.

VO will be the vanguard for solar powered transport, paving the way for heavier solar vehicles as solar cell efficiency continues to advance.

The QXS-E1 motor is a compact, rugged 35 kW electric motor being developed by Edge Mobility. Designed to fit tight packaging volumes with its novel integrated liquid cooling system, it is an ideal solution for manufacturers of both electric motorcycle and other small vehicles.

In collaboration with Brace Technology and Xi Engineering, the goal of this Niche Vehicle Network R&D project is to prepare the QXS-E1 motor for production by taking it through a series of virtual simulations and physical tests before integrating it into an electric motorcycle and scooter for in-vehicle demonstrations.