Niche Vehicle Network

Project Overview

In the ever-evolving world of electric vehicles, numerous entrepreneurs are eager to innovate future mobility solutions. Far-UK aims to support this sector by offering modular platform technologies allowing the entrepreneurs to concentrate on implementing their groundbreaking ideas. Thanks to NVN funding, the consortium has reached a pivotal stage, enabling small-scale production of a modular subframe that could be utilised front or rear and that incorporates brakes, suspension, steering, crash technology, electric motor and transmission suitable for smaller vehicles in L5e, L7e -CP, L7e-CU, M1 and N1 categories with GVW 600-1200kg.    

Technology Developed

The technology developed by the consortium includes LSCP's steel pressing capability for low-cost manufacturing, 3JD's expertise in electric vehicle drive train and capacity for increased demand, and Far-UK's strengthened offerings in lightweight crash structures and composite chassis. This technology is innovative and vital to the sector as it enables cost-effective production, enhances vehicle performance, and contributes to sustainability. The next steps involve marketing the developed products directly to industry, exploring potential partnerships, and utilising the driving prototype for testing and marketing purposes to stimulate further opportunities in the electric vehicle market.

Significant Project Outcomes

The project successfully fulfilled its primary aims and objectives, providing a versatile modular front/rear subframe for various projects. The collaborative approach among partners efficiently tackled supply chain and resource challenges, establishing a dependable supply chain poised for growth. The project yielded significant technological achievements and exciting commercial prospects. The project was able to build collaboration and incorporate customer feedback for future success in the electric vehicle sector. Further investment will be necessary to scale up production and meet increasing demand, but the potential of EV Mode is clear for all to see.

Commercial Opportunities

The project opened the door to pent up customer demand, enabling customer conversations that were not credible before. Moving forward, the focus is on expanding existing customer leads and driving demand for targeted business. Small-scale production is nearly set to begin, with the first units expected to be delivered in quarter 1 of 2024. Production will be optimised with customers based on their requirements and production volumes.

NVN Funding

The NVN funding has been crucial for the project as it provided the necessary financial support to bring EV Mode to fruition. Without this funding, it would have been challenging to development, validate and test EV mode to bring it to market. It has empowered us to explore new technologies, collaborate effectively, and make significant strides in the electric vehicle sector.

“Our experience working with NVN is very positive. The support given and opportunities to network with similar businesses and potential partners is invaluable”.