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Technologies for Sustainable Transport - 17th September 2009

Boulton and Watt Commemoration Lecture
Professor Julia King CBE FREng, Vice-Chancellor, Aston University

Drawing on the conclusions of the King Review of low carbon cars and the work of the UK's Committee on Climate Change, the lecture focussed on the vehicle, information and fuel technologies which could deliver the 80 - 90% reduction in vehicle emissions that will be required to meet our 2050 targets.

Potential scenarios for introducing new technology was proposed, including infrastructural impacts such as power generation and distribution, and the major obstacles and policy implications.

The automotive industry plays an important role in the economy of the UK, and the West Midlands in particular.

Over the past year, Government and industry have been working together to launch 'Test-bed UK', to make the UK a showcase for ultra low carbon vehicle technologies, enabling UK companies to be ready for important new low-emissions vehicle markets and attracting interest and investment from overseas manufacturers.  Birmingham's leading role as a demonstration site will draw on the innovative, entrepreneurial engineering talents of the region, reflecting the legacy of Boulton and Watt.