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The DRIVE35 Scale-up: Feasibility Studies 2 competition is now open, providing a major opportunity for UK organisations preparing to scale up zero-emission vehicle technologies. With £5 million available, the programme aims to strengthen the UK’s manufacturing base, accelerate the transition to clean transport, and unlock private investment in strategic technologies.
What the Funding Supports
The competition focuses on feasibility studies that build investment-ready plans for UK manufacturing facilities. Projects can cover:
• Pilot-scale manufacturing
• Demonstration-scale manufacturing
• Industrial-scale manufacturing
Eligibility
Applicants must be UK-registered businesses of any size. Projects must:
• Request between £150,000 and £750,000 in grant funding
• Start by 1 May 2026 and end by 31 January 2027
• Last up to nine months
• Ensure the majority of work is carried out in the UK
• Prepare a detailed close-out report and present findings to the APC
Funding limits apply: SMEs can receive up to 60%, and large businesses up to 50%, of total eligible project costs.
Who This Competition Is For
This is an ideal opportunity for organisations planning to:
• Scale up advanced manufacturing capability
• Build facilities for zero-emission vehicle components or complete vehicles
• Transition existing operations to future-proof, low-carbon technologies
• Strengthen the UK supply chain and create long-term economic value
Companies must demonstrate strong strategic alignment with the UK Industrial Strategy and Automotive Council roadmaps.
Key Dates
• Competition opens: 10 November 2025
• Competition closes: 17 December 2025 at 11:00am
• Applicants notified: 5 March 2026
• Project start: From 1 May 2026
How Inventya Can Help
Inventya has deep experience supporting businesses across automotive, manufacturing, and clean technology. We help organisations shape strong, competitive proposals for feasibility, scale-up, and R&D funding. Our support includes:
• Project Scoping: Clarifying the manufacturing pathway, technological maturity, and strategic alignment with DRIVE35.
• Business Case Development: Building robust investment cases, facility plans, financial models, and commercialisation strategies.
• Technical Narrative Writing: Crafting compelling, compliant responses across all 16 application questions.
• Market and Supply Chain Analysis: Strengthening your justification and competitiveness.
• Risk and Impact Assessment: Demonstrating clear value to the UK economy, supply chain, and net-zero targets.
• Submission Management: Ensuring your application is complete, aligned, and delivered on time.
With Inventya’s expertise, your organisation can approach DRIVE35 with confidence, fully prepared to present a compelling and investment-ready case.
