DRIVE35 innovation fund: collaborate three
This UKRI grant funds collaborative R&D to commercialise technologies for zero emission vehicles, advanced manufacturing, and future automotive software, supporting the UK's net zero automotive industry goals.
Funder: UK Research and Innovation
Due Dates: September 16, 2026 (Full application, 11:00am UK time)
Funding Amounts: £2.5M–£20M per project (grant), up to 50% of total eligible costs; total fund: £20M; project duration: 18–36 months
Summary: Supports late-stage collaborative R&D to advance zero emission vehicles and a net zero UK automotive industry.
Key Information: Projects must be collaborative, 50% match-funded, and led by UK businesses; includes strict eligibility and scope requirements.
Description
This funding opportunity, delivered by UK Research and Innovation (UKRI) in partnership with the Department for Business and Trade and Advanced Propulsion Centre UK, aims to accelerate the UK's transition to zero emission vehicles and establish a pathway to a net zero automotive industry. The fund supports late-stage collaborative research and development projects that target direct commercialisation of innovative technologies in vehicle electrification, manufacturing competitiveness, and future vehicle software/electronic architectures. Projects must demonstrate significant potential for economic impact, job creation, and alignment with UK strategic priorities.
