Thursday 17 June 2021

Canada invests $10m in McMaster University’s green automotive and aerospace hub

The Government of Canada is supporting the establishment of a green automotive, aerospace and advanced manufacturing network at McMaster University with a $10 million (£5.8m) investment.

Called iHub, the facility will bring together industry experts to support manufacturers, automotive and aerospace suppliers and SMEs to develop, test and incorporate the latest technologies required for the production of next-generation electric and autonomous vehicles and energy efficient and intelligent aircrafts.

The project is expected to support more than 230 SMEs to facilitate the commercialisation of 100 new products or services and support up to 170 direct jobs.

It will also expand the existing facilities at McMaster Innovation Park and leverage an additional $16.8 million (£9.8m) from industry partners, including Ford, Honda, Bombardier, Stellantis (Fiat Chrysler) and MHI – RJ Aviation Group, a subsidiary of Mitsubishi Heavy Industries.

The project hopes to enhance Ontario's position as a global destination to develop, test and commercialise hybrid, electric and autonomous vehicles and intelligent aircraft technologies while accelerating the path to net zero emissions.

Mélanie Joly, Minister of Economic Development and Official Languages and Minister responsible for FedDev Ontario said: “Our government is committed to supporting our innovators and businesses through the creation of good jobs, while creating a greener healthier future for all Canadians. iHub will bring together the major players in the automotive and aerospace sectors to ensure that innovative Ontario SMEs have an opportunity to integrate their solutions into these global supply chains.

“Advancing the shift toward electrification in these sectors is critical for reaching the government's goal of accelerating Canada's net zero emissions future. The work accomplished by iHub will set us on the right path.”