LEADING government scientific advisers have visited the research centre in Emersons Green where the engines of the future are being developed and tested.
IAAPS, on the Bristol and Bath Science Park, is dedicated to researching and refining new engine technology using alternative fuels such as hydrogen and helium.
It brings companies and academic researchers together to work on engines and motors to power new generations of cars, lorries, ships and planes.
The £70 million centre has been funded by Bath University, government agency Research England and the West of England Combined Authority.
Visiting to see how its investment is being put to work was the government’s chief scientific advisor, Professor Dame Angela McLean, and Professor Chris Johnson, who is chief scientific advisor to the Department of Science, Innovation and Technology (DSIT).
Bath University’s pro vice-chancellor for research and enterprise, Professor Sarah Hainsworth, joined IAAPS executive director Professor Chris Brace and managing director Professor Rob Oliver to show the scientists some of the technological advances into zero-emission propulsion being worked on at the centre.
Professor McLean also got to try out a state-of-the-art driving simulator designed to help bring new technology onto the market faster, lower research costs and carbon emissions.
The delegation was also shown IAAPS’ green hydrogen-making capabilities, using solar power, and were given insights into work collaborating with GKN Aerospace on the H2GEAR project to develop a liquid hydrogen electric propulsion system for aircraft.
The visitors also discussed the role of IAAPS working with industry and government towards the UK’s net-zero carbon emission efforts.
Professor McLean said: “It was fascinating to witness first-hand the applied collaboration with industry here on site.
“We all know that there is fantastic intellectual capital, both in our universities and in our industries, and it’s terrific to see it come together in one place.”
Professor Brace said: “Collaboration between academia, industry and government is essential to drive the innovation needed to achieve our decarbonisation targets.”
Professor Oliver added: “The discussions highlighted the urgency of ensuring that the UK remains a leader in net-zero mobility, and we look forward to continuing to work with key stakeholders to achieve this goal.”