Gordon Murray Group Receives Government Funding for Ultra-Lightweight Vehicle Platform
Introduction
The Gordon Murray Group (GMG) has been awarded a share of an £88 million innovation fund from the government to support the development of an ‘ultra-lightweight’ vehicle platform. This funding comes as part of the government-backed Advanced Propulsion Centre’s Collaborative R&D competition, with GMG being one of 46 UK companies to receive a portion of the fund.
GMG’s Funding and Partnership
GMG will receive approximately £22.5 million, including an £11 million government grant. They will be sharing this funding with Surrey-based Protean Electric, a developer of in-wheel motors for electric vehicles. The purpose of the funding is to aid the development of a new “ultra-lightweight vehicle platform for future vehicles” called M-Lighten. It is important to note that this platform will not be exclusively for electric vehicles.
Benefits of the Ultra-Lightweight Platform
The details of the M-Lighten platform have not been disclosed by GMG. However, Jean-Philippe Launberg, the strategy and business director, stated that the aim is to create cars that are significantly more energy-efficient to build and run, contributing to the UK’s decarbonization efforts. Additionally, the lightweighting achieved through M-Lighten will enhance the already renowned dynamics of GMG’s cars, taking driving perfection to the next level.
GMG’s Previous Projects
Since its establishment in 2017, GMG has unveiled two V12-engined supercars, the T50 and T33. The company has also expanded its headquarters in Windlesham and announced plans to develop electric vehicles for global car firms. In 2022, GMG was reported to be working on a pair of electric SUVs, with a focus on minimizing weight and maximizing efficiency during production.
Protean Electric’s Role
Protean Electric, the partner company sharing the funding with GMG, specializes in in-wheel motors. These motors provide precise control over vehicles while eliminating the need for axles, driveshafts, and subframes. This design reduces the overall mass of the vehicle and allows for the use of smaller batteries. Protean Electric’s motors have already been utilized by UK firm Bedeo in an electric Land Rover Defender conversion.
Conclusion
The government funding received by GMG and Protean Electric will contribute to the productionization of the M-Lighten platform. This platform will underpin future models, including electric SUVs and a hybrid sports car. The funding highlights the UK’s commitment to decarbonization and the development of zero-tailpipe-emission vehicle technologies. With the support of the government, GMG and Protean Electric are poised to lead the way in innovative and lightweight automotive solutions.
