Spark EV Technology selected for IM Accelerator programme

Start-up Spark EV Technology has been chosen for the UK’s Intelligent Mobility (IM) Accelerator programme to further commercialise its artificial intelligence-based electric vehicle (EV) journey prediction software.

The IM Accelerator, a partnership between 7800 Transport Systems Catapult (TSC) and Wayra UK, supports six start-ups in delivering solutions to improve the UK transport system. Each programme lasts for six months and is based in the English town of Milton Keynes.

Spark’s journey prediction software uses machine learning to help EVs and hybrid vehicles travel further between charges using live data from the vehicle and driver. These predictions are expected to help drivers overcome ‘range anxiety’ – the fear that EVs will not be able to find charging points on longer journeys.

Gary Stewart, director, Wayra UK, says Spark’s solution helps to reduce transport emissions by accelerating the adoption of EVs.

Wayra UK (part of 6883 Telefónica Open Future) and TSC will provide Spark with office space, mentoring and network, access to the partners’ networks of investors, government agencies, customers and universities. In addition, Spark will have opportunities to work with TSC’s data, visualisation and connected and autonomous vehicle capability teams.

Telefónica, a Spanish multinational telecommunications company, launched the Telefónica Open Future innovation programme to connect entrepreneurs, start-ups and public and private organisations worldwide.