The Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders has created a dedicated team to co-ordinate its electric vehicle development, new technologies, innovation, e-mobility and low carbon motoring activities.

SMMT made the changes in recognition of the increasing importance of these areas to UK automotive, aligning itself with the Automotive Council’s approach to supporting innovation and R&D.

Paul Everitt, SMMT chief executive, said: “The UK automotive industry is determined to take a leading role in developing the technologies to deliver sustainable motoring for the long-term.

“To support SMMT’s work in building a market for ultra-low carbon vehicles and embedding important industrial capability in the UK supply chain, we have pulled together a number of staff and functions to establish a new innovation and e-mobility team.

"The team, lead by Samantha Larner will bring energy, enthusiasm and experience to the challenges and exciting opportunities ahead.”

The newly formed team will continue to facilitate and support the SMMT’s EV Group.

The cross departmental team will be led by Larner who brings her expertise on technology, knowledge transfer and innovation to the role. She will join SMMT’s the Public Policy and Vehicle Legislation Department, taking over responsibilities from Catherine Hutt, SMMT's outgoing electric vehicle manager who is leaving to pursue further MBA studies.