The Automotive Update: SMMT Electrified 2026 and autonomous technology developments
12 March 2026
What were the key talking points from SMMT Electrified 2026? Plus, a look at Renault’s new strategy and major robotaxi collaborations. Autovista24 editor Tom Geggus presents the latest Automotive Update podcast.
Autovista24 special content editor Phil Curry joins the Automotive Update from SMMT Electrified 2026 in London. Plus, a dive into Renault Group’s plan to drive growth in the run up to 2030. Also, a look at which companies will work with Wayve on new autonomous vehicle technology.
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Inside SMMT Electrified 2026
SMMT Electrified 2026 focuses on the UK automotive industry’s transition to electric vehicles (EVs) and other zero-emission technologies.
Among a wide range of topics, this year’s event focused in on key policies that could shape EV production and demand in the UK. This included the ZEV mandate, which SMMT chief executive Mike Hawes said requires an ‘urgent review.’ This is due to the domestic EV market not reaching its full growth potential, he explained.
Subsequently, industry figures called for further ZEV mandate clarity at the event. Patrick McGillycuddy, managing director at JLR UK, highlighted customer confusion. This uncertainty has been exacerbated by the looming pay-per-mile EV charge. Meanwhile, Lisa Brankin, Ford UK chair and managing director, pointed out that carmakers are facing challenges in meeting the ZEV target.
Renault’s new era
Renault Group has announced ‘futuREady’, its new strategic plan. Central to the initiative is an aim to sell over two million cars by 2030. These targets will be enabled by the launch of 36 new models.
In Europe, the Renault brand will launch 12 models spanning the A and B segments, as well as new models in the C and D segments. International markets will see 14 new vehicles launched by the brand between now and 2030.
Elsewhere within Renault Group, Dacia plans to electrify two-thirds of its sales in 2030. The brand will also look to increase the number of EVs in its range from one to four. Meanwhile, Alpine will launch the next generation of its A110, as well as building on the A290 and the A390.
François Provost, CEO of Renault Group, stated: ‘futuREady, our new strategic plan, is a crucial step in the future of Renault Group. In an environment that is even more competitive, we can build on solid fundamentals: our brands, our products and our financial results.’
Wayve hello to new autonomous collaborations
UK-based autonomous driving company Wayve has announced a new robotaxi collaboration with Uber and Nissan. The trio hope to launch a pilot in Tokyo later this year. The project will integrate Wayve’s AI autonomous driving system into a Nissan base vehicle. This will then be connected with Uber’s ride-hailing platform.
Elsewhere, Wayve will also work with Qualcomm on a pre-integrated advanced driver-assistance and automated driving system for carmakers. This will provide support for entry-level hands-off driving assistance, as well as for eyes-off automated driving.
