University of Bath set to build R&D institute for EVs

The University of Bath is planning to build a new £60 million automotive institute to develop electric vehicles.

According to Electronics Weekly, The Institute for Advanced Automotive Propulsion Systems (IAAPS) is scheduled to open in 2020.

It will focus on developing ultra-low emission vehicles and has been backed by a £29 million investment from the Higher Education Funding Council for England.

The centre is aiming to be a global centre of excellence in advanced propulsion systems and construction is expected to begin next year.

It is supported by major UK carmakers and automotive industry players such as McLaren, Ford, Jaguar Land Rover, Hofer Powertrain and HORIBA Group.

The centre will be a home for training and skills development in automotive engineering, supporting new apprenticeships and undergraduate and postgraduate degrees and PhD research.