Businesses across the UK are being urged to apply for a share in £1.8 million of government funding boost to develop ways to deliver innovative tech that will decarbonise freight.
SMEs can get their share by deploying cutting-edge AI technology and automation to improve the way trains, lorries, vans, and ships carry parcels and goods.
Examples of the developments made possible through earlier grants include Royal Mail working with Skyports to deliver mail by drones across Orkney. This is the first time ever mail is being delivered by drones in the UK, allowing Royal Mail to deliver 24 hours faster than using vans or ferries.
The Freight Innovation Fund has also supported FedEx in trialling new eCargo bikes to deliver parcels quickly in traffic-heavy city centres, helping decarbonise deliveries.
Roads Minister Guy Opperman said: “The freight and logistics sectors are part of our economy’s backbone, ensuring supermarket shelves are stocked, hospitals receive crucial medical supplies and important deliveries are made.
“That’s why, as part of the government’s plan to grow the economy, the Freight Innovation Fund is supporting businesses to innovate and back skilled UK jobs.”
