Formula Student
The Advanced Propulsion Centre UK (APC) and the Institution of Mechanical Engineers (IMechE) have joined forces to host the Future-Proofing UK Automotive Manufacturing: Strategies for Competitiveness and Growth; a senior-level industry event focused on strengthening the UK’s automotive manufacturing in a transforming global landscape.
This forum will discuss DRIVE35 funding opportunities, which will provide up to £4bn of funding from the UK government to support research, development and capital funding for strategic vehicle technologies contributing to a transition to Zero Emission Vehicles.
Attendees will all have a chance to participate in roundtables to discuss topics including cost competitiveness and productivity, technology development, sustainability, and more, to inform how DRIVE35 funding could be targeted for maximum economic growth.
This event demonstrates a shared commitment between APC and IMechE to foster collaboration from across the automotive ecosystem and welcomes senior engineers from OEMs, suppliers, tooling and machinery providers, and researchers working across the sector to convene in London and share their current challenges and opportunities to inform where DRIVE35 support could deliver maximum impact.
“If the UK is to remain competitive in the next era of global automotive manufacturing, we must invest with purpose and listen to the expertise within our engineering community. DRIVE35 delivered by APC, on behalf of government, represents a £4bn commitment from government, and includes support for manufacturing competitiveness and productivity. By engaging with, and learning from, the sector through this event, we can ensure that the UK remains at the forefront of vehicle technology and advanced manufacturing,” said Ian Constance, APC.
"Together with our members in industry, the Institution of Mechanical Engineers is well positioned to contribute our expertise and have a direct impact on the direction of automotive manufacturing in the UK," said Jo Passingham, interim CEO at the IMechE. "This forum is a great opportunity for our members working across the automobile sector to have an active role in these discussions and secure vital funding that will continue to enable engineering innovation that the UK has a rich heritage in."
Event details:
Event date: 18 March 2026
Location: London
Website: www.imeche.org/futureproofing
Places are limited; apply to secure your place via the website.
Media contacts:
Institution of Mechanical Engineers
media@imeche.org
Advanced Propulsion Centre
Laurah Hutchinson-Strain
Senior PR Manager
Email: Laurah.hutchinson-strain@apcuk.co.uk