Solent Event Switches On To The Transport Of Tomorrow

Online, October 15, 2010 (Newswire.com) - An ambitious bid to build a complete regional supply chain for the production of electric vehicles is the focus of the first event of its kind in the South.

The Electric Vehicle Forum is aimed at businesses who make systems and components that could be used in the manufacture of greener cars, vans and bikes.

Taking place at the Portsmouth business and conference centre, 1000 Lakeside, the free event will facilitate an open discussion about the role the South could play in the global future of automotive technology.

Arthur Monks, Portfolio Director at the Solent Innovation & Growth Team, which is organising the forum, said: "The Solent area could be a big player in this still emerging industry as we have such a rich seam of technology expertise, but we think most companies are unaware of the potential opportunities. If you are not already in the low carbon or electric vehicle field, your technology and production processes may only be a very small step away. The event will try to establish a network with the collective DNA to create the next automotive supply chain."

Mr Monks, a chartered electrical engineer with many years' experience of automotive electronics gained in both vehicle assembly and the supply chain, has gathered a range of local partners including vehicle and precision component manufacturers, local authorities and universities.

He expects the audience on the day to include entrepreneurs, company chief executives and engineering directors from across the potential supply chain in the South.

The keynote speaker is industry guru Dave Greenwood, project director for technology, innovation and strategy at automotive engineering giant Ricardo. Mr Greenwood will discuss the technologies and challenges of electric vehicles and the commercial issues facing designers especially the impact of legislation and the drive to reduce emissions.

On display will be some of the latest electric and hybrid vehicles as well as charging point hardware and even an electric cycle.

Attendees can have a mini ride and drive and view the latest battery and fuel cell technology and charging point infrastructure.

Mr Monks added: "Because of societal changes, the impact of legislation and the need to be greener, electrification of vehicles will become an ever growing trend. That in turn will fundamentally change the way cars, vans and bikes are manufactured and sold. As well as the obvious benefits of zero emissions, electric vehicles can attract stimulus grants for producers and suppliers. Now is the time to get our regional strategy together and ensure our companies are at the forefront of this emerging industry."

The Electric Vehicle Forum takes place at 1000 Lakeside in Portsmouth on Wednesday 24 November 2010 from 8am to 1pm. For more information and to register or exhibit, visit http://electricvehicleforum2010.eventbrite.com.