Accelerate Programme

Accelerate Clusters has been carefully designed to support and develop the automotive sector in Wales by focusing on emerging technologies, niche market opportunities and also by expanding upon the successful supply chain foundations already laid by the existing Accelerate programme.

A minimum of 8 Cluster groups have been identified with other potential clusters also under consideration.

Each Cluster will comprise of manufacturing companies, academia, research & development, partner organisations, potential projects and other bodies/individuals appropriate to the specific Cluster.

It is anticipated that the activities of Accelerate Clusters will provide the basis for Wales becoming a leading player in specific technologies/markets thereby encouraging long-term growth within particular fields.

Accelerate Clusters will provide a fully funded project manager for each Cluster, who will act as mentor or change agent, assisting in improving individual and collective performance of participating companies.

The Cluster Managers will provide project management resource for business support activity, help to identify new and fresh opportunities in the sector, support new product development, innovation and technology, as well as providing help to implement best practice.

"To achieve a zero emission energy based economy supported by a sustainable business community through the exploitation of leading edge technologies and stimulation of emerging niche markets"

Designed to encompass all aspects of the End of Vehicle Life Directive this Cluster focuses upon establishing a network of appropriate participants to allow Wales to efficiently execute the demands of the legislation and promote with manufacturers the concept of designing better recyclability and waste management at source. The Cluster will include those involved with collection, dismantling, de-pollution, crushing etc.

Process and Design

Focusing on helping Welsh based automotive suppliers so as to enable them to compete in a market rapidly insisting on high levels of Digital design and engineering skills plus assisting companies in reaching and maintaining best standards of business practice as they strive to meet the future needs of the industry.

New Vehicles

This Cluster is focused upon the development of an ultra-luxury saloon car and a congestion busting vehicle.
Emphasis is placed upon the opportunity to create of a Welsh based supply chain for these projects.

Motorsport

The Cluster will closely align itself with the Motorsport initiative of the Welsh Automotive Forum and Wales Rally GB. There will be emphasis on the business development opportunities for Welsh based companies and organisations to benefit from the niche markets associated with Motorsport.

Accelerate Clusters Background