UKCAAR Feasibility Sprint
Accelerating innovation in sustainable mobility
Funded by the Department for Business and Trade and delivered by the Advanced Propulsion Centre UK, the UKCAAR Feasibility Sprint is a competitive funding opportunity designed to spark bold, collaborative research that supports the UK’s transition to zero-emission vehicles.
Key dates
- Application opens: 20 October 2025
- Application deadline: 21 November 2025
- Project start: 1 January 2026
- Project completion: 31 July 2026
- Notification of success: 31 December 2025
Scope and themes
Projects must align with one or more DRIVE35 technology themes:
- Theme 1: Zero Emission Vehicle Technologies
Batteries, electric machines, power electronics, hydrogen systems, fuel cells, lightweight materials, and non-fossil fuel ICEs*.
*On-highway; zero harmful emissions, off-highway; enabling a transition towards net zero.
- Theme 2: Manufacturing Competitiveness
Digital transformation, decarbonisation, lean manufacturing, and supply chain development.
- Theme 3: Future Vehicle Innovation
Software-defined vehicles, E/E architectures, embedded software, control systems, and network communications.
Funding available
- Total fund: £330,000
- APC funding provided per project: £30,000–£90,000
- Match funding: Funding paid to the academic institution must be matched by industrial partner(s),
(In-kind contributions only – no direct cash required). - Funding allocation:
- 60% between project start and 31 March 2026
- 40% between 1 April 2026 and 31 July 2026
Who can apply?
- Lead applicant: UK-registered academic institutions only
- Collaborators: Industry partners (UK or international)
- Project type: Single applicant or academic–industry collaboration
- Location: All work must be carried out in the UK
Additional notes
Consequently, applications that involve entities with significant overseas control will be examined very carefully.
Applications must be submitted via the APC portal. You’ll need:
- A completed project plan and budget template
- Details of academic and industrial partners
- Responses to assessment questions
Click here to see more details and start your application!
Contact us
Get in touch with a member of the team.
General enquiries
[email protected]Media enquiries
[email protected]Career opportunities
[email protected]Advanced Propulsion Centre
IIPSI Building
University Road
Coventry
CV4 7AL