Welsh Assembly sets out plans to boost low carbon vehicle sector at Cardiff event
Tue 18 March 2014
View all news
The Welsh Assembly Government has set out an action plan to support the growth of the low carbon vehicle sector in Wales. The plan was launched at an event held on 18 March in Cardiff which was attended by the Economy Minister Edwina Hart.
Speaking at the event, the Minister said she wants to create a Welsh model for the industry, that will benefit both the automotive sector and the environment.
She set up an expert steering group last year to provide advice and recommendations on how to develop the LCV sector in Wales to maximise opportunities for growth and jobs.
The Minister told the Conference, which was chaired by Prof. Garel Rhys, that the project is progressing well and has identified a number of thematic activities to boost the sector.
The Minister said:“The group is focused on a partnership approach between the public and private sectors and draws on the knowledge and expertise of representatives from the automotive industry, manufacturers, supply chain businesses, utility companies, local authorities and academia.
“They are looking at three key benefits that the development of LCVs could bring to Wales – supporting the manufacturing industry, helping to increase energy security by diversification and reducing environmental pollution.”
The Minister said that Wales is in a good position to encourage diversification and capitalise on the economic benefits of low carbon vehicles. The existing automotive base in Wales is significant, with more than 150 companies employing around 15000 people bringing an estimated £3bn to the Welsh economy annually.
The launch conference was organised by the Energy Saving Trust and supported by the Welsh Government. It was designed to raise awareness of the economic benefits for companies using low carbon vehicles and also provided a chance to understand future supply chain opportunities.
The Low Carbon Vehicle Partnership was represented at the Conference and was also amongst the exhibitors.
Related Links
< Back to news list