UK government co-funds electric truck, hydrogen bus projects

London — The UK Department for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy has announced a GBP54 million ($74.76 million) government-led funding for electric trucks and hydrogen-powered buses.

Three projects in Wales, England and Northern Ireland are to receive the state/industry funding with the long-term aim of removing 45 million mt of carbon emissions, BEIS said.

"Investment in new technologies, including hydrogen fuel cells, will help cement the UK's position as a global leader in automotive technology," the ministry said.

The bulk of the funds GBP31.9 million has been assigned to develop electric propulsion systems for heavy goods vehicles in Cwmbran, Wales. The technology gives lorries greater travel range and better energy efficiency for coaches and construction vehicles.

A further GBP11.3 million will support energy-saving technology from motorsport for use in cars and vans from a center in Warwickshire, and GBP11.2 million will support low-cost hydrogen fuel cell technology for buses, creating a hydrogen center of excellence with bus manufacturer Wrightbus in Ballymena, Northern Ireland.