UK-based Ballymena manufacturer, Wrightbus, has landed a £534,000 slice of government funding aimed at advancing its hydrogen fuel cell technology. This development comes after the company previously unveiled the world’s first double-decker hydrogen bus.
The funding is part of a £50 million government initiative to support 30 various manufacturing projects, including rapid-charging motorcycles and autonomous vehicles. This move cements the UK’s standing as a global hotspot for manufacturing innovation.
Jean-Marc Gales, CEO of Wrightbus, expressed excitement about the opportunity: “On the heels of creating the world’s first double-decker hydrogen bus, we’re eager to develop a hydrogen-electric powertrain for the coach sector. Hydrogen fuel-cell technology is seen as the most viable option for decarbonizing this sector.”
Chancellor of the Exchequer, Jeremy Hunt, endorsed the funding, saying, “These projects show we’re rich in innovation. This investment will spur growth in future industries, fulfilling our plan to kickstart the economy and make the UK a business utopia.”
The funding is channelized through the Advanced Propulsion Centre (APC), awarding £11 million to 12 fast-track projects, including Wrightbus. With matching funds from industry, these projects will collectively receive £22.7 million to bring automotive innovations to market within a year.
Ian Constance, CEO of APC, noted, “In just 12 months, we’ll witness the returns on this £22.7 million investment. These funded projects are definitely the ones to watch.”
The government’s backing aims to bolster the UK’s prowess in green technology, thereby generating jobs and propelling economic growth.
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