Electronics and automotive industry bodies sign deal to boost UK role in low carbon vehicle sector

The allegiance between the two bodies is a result of the increasing importance of electronics in vehicles, especially in cutting greenhouse emissions. Under the terms of the agreement, the organisations will develop several events and projects to raise awareness and promote opportunities for companies, universities and relevant stakeholders working in the automotive electronics field. Paul Everitt, SMMT chief executive said: "The number of essential electronic components found within a car has increased exponentially in recent years. Greater alignment between the two sectors is essential to ensure the continued development of technology that helps to further reduce vehicle emissions." Derek Boyd, ceo of the NMI added: "The move to low carbon vehicles and intelligent transport systems creates new opportunities for the UK electronics industry. We're delighted to be working with SMMT to build closer linkages between electronics and automotive sectors. There is fantastic technology being developed here that will prove vital in delivering the car of the future." The first collaborative event takes place at the University of Warwick, running 22nd-23rd June. Free to members of both organisations, it will feature keynote addresses and presentations from Tata, Jaguar-Land Rover, and leading electronics companies engaged in the automotive eco-system.