Run by the Transport Systems Catapult (TSC) – established by the Technology Strategy Board to boost UK market share in intelligent transport systems – the new “Imovation Centre” will support business growth in this emerging market, positioning the UK as a global leader in Intelligent Mobility products and services – from driverless vehicles and improved airport data systems to integrated logistics, sentiment mapping and smart traffic lights.

Following the official opening by Dr Cable, staff at the centre provided a series of demonstrations and simulations of some of the projects already being worked on, including the LUTZ Pathfinder programme, which will see driverless pods being tested on the pavements of Milton Keynes.

Vince Cable said: ‘Britain has a long history of transport innovation; from the shipbuilders who paved the way for globalisation, to the railways, that underpinned the industrial revolution.

‘This new innovation centrewill ensure the UK is well placed to profit from the increased demand for high-tech transport solutions – creating jobs, supporting businesses, and driving economic growth.’

The new centre will use the latest technological developments to improve the transportation of people and goods. It will also offer modelling and testing facilities, allowing new products to be properly trialled and demonstrated.

Steve Yianni, chief executive of the Transport Systems Catapult said: ‘Intelligent Mobility harnesses new technologies to create seamless journeys, where transport is smart and connected, and delays and congestions are a thing of the past. The Imovation Centre will take the brightest solutions to the most pressing transport challenges, and help make those ideas a commercial success.'

It is estimated that the global market in Intelligent Mobility will be worth around £900bn a year by 2025, and the Imovation Centre aims to help the UK secure at least a ten percent share of that market.