Transport innovation in focus as TRIG 2024 winners unveiled
Winners of the government's Transport Research and Innovation Grant (TRIG) for 2024 have been announced, with 32 pioneering projects granted a share of £1.4 million to drive innovation and growth.
Notably, this year, proposals were sought, which focused on local transport decarbonisation, maritime decarbonisation and emerging technologies such as AI and drones.
"With sustainability at the core of this year’s competition, we’re helping to shape the future of transport - making travel cleaner, safer and more efficient for everyone," said Aviation, maritime and security minister Mike Kane.
Among the winners were Surrey-based Streetwise Technology, whose pedestrian zone management system enhances road safety by alerting drivers and pedestrians of each other's presence in real time, significantly reducing the risk of accidents.
Additionally, the system promotes sustainable mobility and accessibility.
Elsewhere, Systra Ltd, the large engineering firm, which has locations in the Midlands and London, has advanced a tool, which helps to reduce and mitigate the impact of road collisions at the design stage.
Another recipient from the grant was the project PRIMET - Port Recharging Infrastructure for Maritime Energy Transition, developed by MSE International (the trading name of Marine South East Ltd).
The project will accelerate the roll-out of port and harbour infrastructure to support the rapid expansion in vessel recharging and shore-powering facilities which are essential to realise the Clean Maritime Plan.
Southampton-based SME Inteliports was another winner. Its project is aimed at incorporate a new autonomous charging system called the “Universal Connection System” which enables power delivery via a mechanical gripper system that receives power through autonomous systems.
Elsewhere, Warwick's Coexlion Ltd has developed a battery for last-mile delivery right-sized to enable increased roll-out of lower carbon solutions.
Sensors, digital connectivity, position navigation and AI technologies mean charging can be optimised to reduce energy and prolong the battery life.
Also, Farnborough, Hampshire-based JET Connectivity was chosen for an award. It has a project to develop 5G connectivity and solutions to support shipping and maritime industries in determining accurate positional information.
Over the last decade, the Transport Research and Innovation Grant (TRIG) programme has invested more than £15 million to support industries in the pursuit for new technologies and collaborations.
It has funded over 430 projects, ranging from better connecting rural communities with a shuttle bus app to trialling the use of hydrogen to make plane and boat journeys greener.