Countdown Begins To SMMT’S Award For Automotive Innovation 2011

Sponsored by GKN Driveline, the Award recognises innovations within UK automotive manufacturing, retail, design and engineering, acknowledging ideas that have already benefitted, or have the potential to deliver, automotive excellence.

“This Award sets the standard in innovative design, engineering and technology, highlighting the capabilities of UK automotive,” said Paul Everitt, SMMT Chief Executive. Innovations in safety technology and fuel efficiency have transformed our sector and through this Award, SMMT is seeking to demonstrate the contribution the UK makes to this diverse global sector.”

A panel of leading industry experts, which includes; Jerry Hardcastle, Vice President, Vehicle Design and Development, Nissan and Ralph Hosier, Chartered Engineer and motoring journalist and Paul Everitt, SMMT Chief Executive, will judge this year’s Award, following presentations from the shortlisted entrants.

Last year’s Award was presented to Gordon Murray Design for the iStream©, which wowed judges with its innovative approach to manufacturing. It uses disruptive technology for large-scale vehicle production, reducing costs and its environmental impact and has since gone on to form the basis of the T.25 and a prototype electric vehicle, the T.27, which was unveiled earlier this year.

Shortlisted entries receive industry recognition within one of the UK’s most diverse and exciting industries and the winner will be presented with the Award at SMMT’s 95th Annual Dinner on 22 November 2011 at the London Hilton, Park Lane, in front of over 800 senior industry executives.

SMMT’s Award for Automotive Innovation 2011 is free to enter and for more information about the Award, entry criteria and last year’s winner, go to http://www.smmt.co.uk/aai/enter/