Newcastle University acquires Zero Carbon Futures

Newcastle University has purchased Zero Carbon Futures UK (ZCF) in order to develop its electric vehicle research capabilities.

The north-east based company provides insight into low carbon vehicles and technologies, which subsequently enables the development of strategies to decarbonise transport.

Through its research specialisms in transport, electric vehicles and sustainability, Newcastle University will provide a larger platform for ZCF to develop whilst ZCF will bring a wealth of experience project managing multi-million pound projects, skills delivery, and EV strategy for cities such as London, Manchester and Milton Keynes, it said.

ZCF was originally formed in 2011 by the electromobility team from One North East, and acquired by Gateshead College following the closure of the Regional Development Agency.

Mike Capaldi, Dean of Business and Innovation at Newcastle University, said about ZCF: “Their skills and experience are highly complementary to the University’s current capabilities bringing strong existing networks and relationships with organisations such as TfL, DfT, BEIS, vehicle manufacturers, power companies, APC, and the Faraday Institution. We think this partnership will be a key driver for continued success in our work on Future Mobility.”

ZCF is led by Colin Herron who is also a visiting professor at Newcastle University, who added: “We bring business and local authority experience and expertise, whilst the University will increase our scope and provide access to a wealth of research. Our ultimate aim is to research and develop new and emerging technologies as low carbon vehicles move into the mainstream and become a major part of our transport system of the future.”