Canada Boosts Auto Research Funding: New Technology to Help Auto Industry Meet Consumer Demands

LONDON, Ontario, June 3, 2008 — The Honourable Jim Prentice, Minister of Industry, announced funding for 54 Canadian research projects that are exploring a wide range of advanced technologies to make future automobiles more efficient, safe and environmentally friendly. He made the announcement yesterday evening at the AUTO21 2008 Conference in London, Ontario, while speaking to leading-edge researchers from across the country.

"Canadian consumers are looking for new, cutting-edge vehicles that are advanced, efficient and green," said Minister Prentice. "Right here in Canada our researchers are stepping up to deliver, and our government is proud to be investing in these projects that involve more than 500 Canadian researchers."

"Our government knows how important our auto sector is for our economy, and we are doing what it takes to fuel innovation for our industry to get out in front of the competition and stay there," he added. "In fact, investing in these research projects is one part of our government's plan to boost the competitiveness of Canada's auto industry. We've also introduced an auto strategy, we've provided tax incentives, and we've introduced mandatory fuel consumption standards."

The Government of Canada is investing $9.5 million over two years for these projects through the Networks of Centres of Excellence Program. An additional $10.5 million is being provided by 240 private and public sector organizations, including automakers, parts suppliers and materials companies. As a result of this investment, more than 300 researchers at 43 universities will conduct research and development that will keep Canada at the forefront of innovation in the automotive industry.

AUTO21 is a Network of Centres of Excellence that enables innovation in many areas of automotive technology. To date, AUTO21 research has resulted in over 30 patents filed or issued and numerous disclosure and licensing agreements.

The Government of Canada is working on key new initiatives to better position Canada's automotive industry in the fast-paced, technologically driven global industry. These measures include:

• sustaining sound fiscal and economic framework policies
• supporting integration of the North American auto sector
• investing in research and development
• creating an Automotive Innovation Fund

For further information (media only) on Canada's Network of Centres of Excellence Program, please visit http://www.nce.gc.ca/.

For further information (media only), please contact:

Deirdra McCracken
Press Secretary
Office of the Honourable Jim Prentice
Minister of Industry
613-995-9001

Media Relations
Industry Canada
613-943-2502