By Charlotte Webster-
Birmingham is set to host the world’s first zero emission vehicles summit.
The emission summit plans to assemble policy makers, industry experts and opinion formers from around the globe to tackle carbon emissions and to find ways to improve air quality.
The move is positive, and demonstrates the seriousness of the government and various policymakers to address the global problem of pollution. Britain is on a mission to put the UK at the forefront of the design and manufacturing of zero-emission vehicles, making all new cars and vans effectively emission-free by 2040.
The British Government said that through its modern Industrial Strategy and Automotive Sector Deal we are committed to making transport technology cleaner and greene
West Midlands-based Jaguar Land Rover has already pledged to only make hybrid or electric cars from 2020.
Transport secretary Chris Grayling said: “The government is committed to meeting our climate change targets and cleaning up our air and to help achieve that we are investing £1.5bn in ultra-low emission vehicles by 2021.
“This ground-breaking event shows Britain leading the way in developing the new technology that will create new jobs and help improve the air we breathe.
“And with a proud history in pioneering vehicle manufacturing, Birmingham is exactly the right location to showcase the innovations of the future.”
The summit will take place at Cenex-LCV – the UK’s premier low carbon vehicle event – held at Millbrook Proving Grounds on 12 September.
Business secretary Greg Clark added: “The Midlands has a rich automotive heritage and the growth of high-tech manufacturing across the region continues to drive investment into the region, produce highly skilled jobs and boost economic growth – making it an ideal place to lead the world in zero emission vehicles.
“Our modern Industrial
The strategy sets out plans for the transition to ultra-low and zero emissions vehicle technology and this summit, bringing together global leaders in the green vehicle revolution, is an important step on the road to making that ambition a reality.”
Robert Evans, chief executive of Cenex, said: “We are honoured that the Zero Emission Vehicle (ZEV) Summit will be linked to our 11th annual Cenex-LCV Event this year.
“The UK is at the forefront of low carbon vehicle technology innovation and we think there is great value for the ZEV attendees to see these technologies first-hand at the Cenex-LCV exhibition.