Britain prepares Rp3.12 trillion to accelerate the development of zero-emission vehicles

Illustration of electric vehicles (pixabay)

JAKARTA - The British government announced funding of nearly 130 million pounds or around US$175 million (Rp3.12 trillion) to accelerate the development of zero-emission vehicle technology.

The funding consists of almost 65 million pounds or around US$88 million (Rp1.56 trillion) from the government and investments from the industrial sector.

Of the total government funds, almost 50 million pounds or around US$67.4 million (Rp1.2 trillion) will be channeled to car manufacturers and research partners to develop and scale up zero-emission vehicle technology.

In addition, the British government allocated 17 million pounds or around US$23 million (Rp408 billion) to support nine connected and automated mobility projects.

The project includes the development of a number of technologies, including sensors, electronic braking systems or brake-by-wire, as well as artificial intelligence (AI) based simulations.

"Britain created a modern automotive industry, and we are determined to ensure that the next generation of vehicles are also designed and made here," said British Industry Minister Blair McDougall in a statement quoted by Antara, Sunday, August 16.

The British government is targeting a halt to the sale of new cars that use only gasoline or diesel engines by 2030. Furthermore, all new cars sold in the country are targeted to use zero-emission technology by 2035.

The policy is part of the UK's efforts to encourage the development of a more environmentally friendly automotive industry while strengthening the country's position in the development of next-generation vehicle technology.