The government has announced £130 million to boost cutting-edge new zero emission vehicle technologies and support skilled jobs nationwide as the government focuses on delivering good growth in every postcode.

The funding will be delivered through the UK's Modern Industrial Strategy and will support over 1,800 jobs across the UK.

Auto firms and key R&D partners have been awarded nearly £50 million in government funding that will help businesses build and produce the zero-emission vehicle technologies of the future at scale.

This funding will be delivered through the DRIVE35 programme.

Industry Minister Blair McDougall said: "Britain invented the modern motor industry and we’re determined to ensure the next generation of vehicles are designed and built here too.

"This investment will secure skilled jobs, strengthen our manufacturing heartlands and help drive the reindustrialisation of Britain.

"Through our Modern Industrial Strategy we’re backing working people and British businesses to deliver growth in every part of the country."