The British electric vehicle (EV) manufacturing sector is falling behind Europe, as global competition heats up.
The Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT) released a report called Race To Zero: Powering Up Britain’s EV Supply Chain, which set out a new strategy to boost the UK’s position as a leading country for automotive manufacturing.
It states the government needs to invest more in the sector to stay competitive with Europe, after other nations have increased economic support for their automotive industries.
Mike Hawes, chief executive of SMMT, said: “Britain boasts a firm foundation of EV production, backed by low carbon energy, outstanding R&D [research and development] and a highly skilled and productive workforce. We must not squander these advantages.”
He added that Britain must “step up to compete in this global race”.
The SMMT believes the Green Automotive Transformation Strategy, as set out in its report, will help Britain’s EV sector compete with Europe’s. It will do this by upskilling the workforce, reducing red tape, and supporting renewable energy projects, among other things.
Mr Hawes also commented on the chancellor of the exchequer’s recent announcement of the Spring Budget. He stated measures like tax breaks for capital expenditures, investment zones focusing on advanced manufacturing, and more R&D are all good steps.
However, Mr Hawes noted Britain is still lacking in support packages that will enable a move towards green energy, which he stated are “available elsewhere”.
With extra investment in the EV sector, manufacturing can increase using precision engineering and the latest in environmentally friendly technology.