Next-generation fleet technologies that could help operators to optimise operations, reduce their environmental footprint or support drivers’ wellbeing are being presented to the auto industry today at a new event.

The SMMT event invited start-ups to pitch solutions, including on ‘intelligent solutions for intelligent fleets’

Taking place in East London at the Plexal Innovation Centre at Here East, the Future Mobility Challenge is being held by the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT) to enable around 50 technology start-ups and SMEs to pitch for opportunities with five carmakers – BMW, Jaguar Land Rover, Bosch, Ford and Toyota – to help shape the face of future mobility.

Attendees were shortlisted to pitch at the event after submitting expressions of interest to pitch technology services and/or solutions to address key mobility challenges. As well as fleet solutions, these cover harnessing the potential of mobility data, using smart data to tackle mobility challenges in cities, providing shared and on-demand mobility models, innovations in customer experience, new connected car services and future vehicle technologies.

The event also saw the SMMT launch a new membership option specifically designed for tech start-ups and bringing access to a number of services including networking, profile raising, community access and business development.

Mike Hawes, SMMT chief executive, said: “The challenges facing the automotive sector are significant but exciting and it’s clear that innovation will be key. We want to encourage the brightest and the best to be part of that future, one that will define the future of mobility.”