The growing importance of low carbon mobility, connectivity and vehicle automation was in clear evidence as a record number of delegates attended the LCV2019 and Cenex Connected Automated Mobility events last week.
Almost 5,000 visitors poured into the dual shows at Millbrook last week, smashing the previous high attendance and underlining the importance of innovation and emerging technologies to the transport industry and wider UK economy.
Visitors heard insightful talks from more than 150 presenters, including the SMMT’s own Mike Hawes and David Wong, Dennis Hayter of Cenex, Dr Ian Campbell of InnovateUK and Andy Street, Mayor of the West Midlands.
There was also a visit from George Freeman MP, Minister of State for the Future of Transport, who addressed delegates about the government’s position before touring the many exhibition stands.
Speaking at the event, transport minister, George Freeman MP, said, “We are on the cusp of a transport revolution, with electrifications and self-driving vehicles accelerating the decarbonization of transport.
“The Government is supporting the development of electric and self-driving vehicles to tackle serious issues like climate change, urban congestion and pollution, making journeys greener and more accessible to all.
Other highlights included a presentation by Philip New, CEO of the Energy Systems Catapult, the launch of Millbrook’s own Autonomous Village – a centre for testing autonomous and connected vehicles, including commercial vehicles and buses – the unveiling of a new low carbon biomethane tractor, and a day-long seminar on battery safety and legislation.
Robert Evans, CEO of Cenex said, “2019 has been a big year for us with the launch of our very first Cenex-Connected Automated Mobility Event at our annual Cenex-LCV Show; and our exhibitors, speakers and visitors didn’t disappoint.
“What we saw over the two days was cutting edge innovations and technologies, agenda setting from government and industry leaders as well as the capabilities and desire to realise both the road to zero for LCV and Connected Automated Mobility on UK roads in the coming years..”
”
