Composite Hybrid Automotive Suspension System Innovative Structures (CHASSIS)
Using composites to reduce the weight of three components in the best selling van of all time - the Ford Transit.
Composites are fundamental in the development of the next generation of zero emission vehicles. They play a crucial role in enabling motors to spin faster and be more efficient; for hydrogen to be stored safely; for ships to harness natural sources of energy; and for safe, comfortable and reliable travel for passengers. The NCC is working at the forefront of identifying, investigating and developing these innovations and technologies.
Energy storage
Today, there is only one cost effective, technically viable and safe way to store hydrogen for mobility applications: composite pressure vessels that draw upon the high performance of fibres and toughness of matrix materials in a composite. The impact performance of composites, low mass and resistance to harsh environments makes composites more competitive than metallic alternatives. At the NCC, we are supporting the development of supply chains and technology for light, strong and durable energy storage solutions.
Improved efficiency for land, sea & rail
Composites provide more durable, lighter and lower full life cost solutions in a number of surface transport applications. They last longer than other materials, which improves reliability, reduces through life costs and reduces the environmental impact of many transport modes. Composites enable increased power density: super high-strength fibres are used to retain magnets in high performance motors, enabling them to spin faster and generate more power for the same mass. In many lower volume applications, like fairings and bodywork, composites can provide the most cost effective manufacturing solution, where complex mouldings can be made from low-cost tools. In turn, low up-front costs remove barriers to market entry and speed product development.
Major programmes
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UK Hydrogen Supply Chain Opportunities Survey
Exploring the supply chain opportunities for hydrogen fuel cell electric powertrains, which will play a significant role in the transition of heavy-duty vehicles (HDVs) to zero emissions.
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Project HYSTOR
Developing a novel, high pressure hydrogen storage tank for use in HGV, bus and off highway applications.
Customer stories
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Magway
Finding a more sustainable, cost-effective alternative material for the subterranean pipes used by Magway
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H1PERBAT
Future proofing battery case design for electric vehicles.
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Project Century
Investigating weight reduction and high production rates for the automotive sector.
News and Events
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NewsRead more about JEC World Paris 2022JEC World Paris 2022
The National Composites Centre exhibited at this year's JEC World in Paris, the leading international composites show, as part of the UK Pavilion with Composites UK, the Department for International Trade and 25 other UK companies. Here we have details of all our announcements made at JEC. -
NewsRead more about National Composites Centre and Arcola Energy publish report on UK supply chain opportunities in hydrogen heavy duty vehiclesNational Composites Centre and Arcola Energy publish report on UK supply chain opportunities in hydrogen heavy duty vehicles
Analysis of a supply chain survey by the NCC highlights current UK capabilities and potential across key technology areas, including hydrogen storage, power electronics and high-power batteries. -
NewsRead more about UK consortium leads project to develop the next generation of hydrogen storage tanks for HGV and buses
UK consortium leads project to develop the next generation of hydrogen storage tanks for HGV and buses
A consortium of UK companies - Ultima Forma, Lentus Composites and the National Composites Centre - have joined forces to develop a novel, high pressure hydrogen storage tank aimed for use in HGV, bus and off highway applications.
