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Local authorities bring business together

A task force from Coventry, Solihull and Warwickshire councils - collectively known as ‘The Winning Technology’ - brought together around 100 senior executives from across the region to network and generate business across industry sectors.

The Winning Technology hosted the Opportunities in a Low Carbon Economy event on Thursday (November 11) at the International Digital Lab, University of Warwick.

The local authorities also secured the prestigious name of Jaguar Land Rover (JLR) as the main sponsor for the showcase event, which was for technology-driven organisations to network and build business for the future.

Guests were treated to exclusive presentations from key industry experts, including Gavin Bottrell from WMG (formerly Warwick Manufacturing Group) who presented the challenges of technology transfer; Dr Mike Richardson of JLR discussed hybrid vehicle development; and Chris Vowles from Axeon talked about battery development for electric vehicles.

The theme of the presentations focused on the diversity of innovation and technology that companies are using to evolve and drive their businesses forward.

There were around 100 guests who came to network with colleagues from the motorsport, aerospace, medical, automotive and ICT sectors as well as visit the various exhibitors, which included Axeon, Coventry & Warwickshire Aerospace Forum, Dignitas, Medilink WM, the Motorsport Industry Association and Westfield.

Cllr Alan Cockburn, Warwickshire County Council’s Portfolio Holder for Environment and Economy, said: “The Opportunities in a Low Carbon Economy event was a huge success, helping businesses to uncover the exciting potential of the benefits of working with companies in other sectors.

“This showcase provided companies with an insight into how new technologies can have a positive long-term impact on their business, and we are proud that Jaguar Land Rover, one of Warwickshire’s largest employers, chose to support the event.”

JLR is one of the most successful global vehicle manufacturers built around two great British car brands that design, engineer and manufacture in Coventry, Solihull and Warwickshire.

JLR is the UK’s largest investor in automotive environmental technologies and is committed to the development of technologies aimed specifically at reducing tailpipe CO2 emissions. The company is working on the development of sustainable technologies including hybrids and electrification.