IAAPS had the honour of welcoming Professor Dame Angela McLean, Chief Scientific Advisor to the Government, and Professor Chris Johnson, Chief Scientific Advisor to the Department of Science, Innovation and Technology (DSIT). The visit provided an opportunity to showcase IAAPS' cutting-edge research and technological advancements in net zero propulsion technologies.
Led by Professor Sarah Hainsworth, Pro-Vice-Chancellor Research and Enterprise at the University of Bath, IAAPS Executive Director Professor Chris Brace, and IAAPS Managing Director Professor Rob Oliver, Professor McLean and Professor Johnson were given a tour of the facilities and overview of the pioneering work being conducted at IAAPS.
During the visit, Professor McLean experienced first-hand the state-of-the-art driving simulator, provided by Ansible Motion in support of a joint programme to develop driver-in-the-loop methods to achieve higher levels of virtual validation across chassis, powertrain and braking systems, allowing shorter time-to-market, lower costs and lower carbon emissions. She even took a ‘virtual spin,’ gaining insight into how IAAPS is leveraging simulation to enhance vehicle efficiency and sustainability.
The delegation was also introduced to IAAPS’ green hydrogen capabilities, a crucial element in the transition to zero-emission transport and a key in-house research and testing focus. Our engineers shared insights on some of the ground-breaking collaborative projects, including IAAPS’ involvement in the H2GEAR project in partnership with GKN Aerospace, where she discussed the challenges of low emission flight with IAAPS and GKN engineers working on the project.
A highlight of the visit was a thought-provoking discussion on the role of institutions such as IAAPS, working with industry and government in accelerating the UK’s net-zero efforts. The conversation underscored the importance of collaboration in advancing sustainable propulsion technologies and ensuring that the UK remains at the forefront of global net-zero innovation.
Speaking about the visit, Professor McLean said: “Research is very important, and it’s extremely interesting to see where the frontiers of research lie and having this very informed discussion about the role of government in facilitating development of the net zero technologies of the future. It was also fascinating to witness first-hand the applied collaboration with industry here onsite. We all know that there is fantastic intellectual capital, both in our universities and in our industries, and it’s terrific to see it come together in one place.”
Professor Chris Brace said: “It was a privilege to host Dame Angela McLean and Professor Chris Johnson at IAAPS today. Their engagement with our research and innovation reinforces the critical role that institutions like ours play in supporting the UK’s transition to sustainable mobility. Collaboration between academia, industry and government is essential to drive the innovation needed to achieve our decarbonisation targets.”
Professor Rob Oliver, IAAPS Managing Director, added: “IAAPS is committed to delivering research and innovation that is directly relevant to industry and address real-world sustainability challenges. Today’s discussions highlighted the urgency of ensuring that the UK remains a leader in net-zero mobility, and we look forward to continuing to work with key stakeholders to achieve this goal.”
03 February 2025