DRIVE35 Funding

DRIVE35 is the UK government’s long‑term funding programme designed to support the transformation of the automotive sector as it transitions to zero‑emission vehicle manufacturing.

Launched as part of the UK’s Industrial Strategy and Advanced Manufacturing Sector Plan, DRIVE35 brings together capital and R&D funding to help manufacturers and supply‑chain businesses innovate, scale up and invest in the UK.

The programme supports projects across the full automotive journey – from early‑stage research and development through to large‑scale manufacturing and plant investment. Funding is available to UK‑registered businesses of all sizes, either applying independently or in collaboration, and spans a wide range of technology readiness levels.

DRIVE35 is structured around three core pillars: Innovation, supporting the development of new and disruptive zero‑emission technologies; Scale‑Up, helping businesses move from validation to commercial production; and Transformation, focused on major capital investments that strengthen the UK’s zero‑emission vehicle and battery supply chain.

Delivered through partnerships with the Advanced Propulsion Centre, Innovate UK and the Department for Business and Trade, DRIVE35 provides long‑term certainty for industry, helping to unlock private investment, improve productivity and secure the UK’s global competitiveness in automotive manufacturing.