An innovation hub at the University of Warwick will research future automotive supply chains, the challenges of vehicle electrification, and using and reusing resources for as long as possible.

It is a partnership between WMG, a University department once known as the Warwick Manufacturing Group, and European automotive logistics firm Gefco. GEFCO today, and is linked with the University’s Centre for Doctoral Training (funded by the Economic and Social Research Council (ESRC).

The first two projects are to:

• research circular business models for the supply, refurbishment and re-use of batteries for the electric automotive supply chain
• research the use of new technologies to design traceable and re-usable packaging

A third project will examine the opportunities for logistics service providers to offer supply chain finance complimentary to out-sourcing of material and information flows.

Professor Janet Godsell (pictured), from the Supply Chain Research Group, WMG, University of Warwick, will head the hub.

“Digital technology provides an opportunity to re-think the way in which we do business, and blurs the traditional distinction between manufacturing and logistics,” said Godsell. “A distinction further blurred as we seek to develop business models that more holistically consider reuse, repair, remanufacture and recycling.”