Rishi visited The Vehicle Group in Colburn to see how the company is developing technology to improve HGV safety and security.
The Richmond and Northallerton MP toured the company’s 27,000 sq ft facility, meeting staff across its research, development, engineering and manufacturing operations.
Mr Sunak saw how The Vehicle Group designs and manufactures safety and security technology for commercial vehicles, including camera systems, driver safety technology and systems designed to detect hazards and monitor vehicles.
He was also shown the company’s use of artificial intelligence in product design and development, including work on advanced driver assistance and vehicle monitoring systems.
The visit also provided an opportunity to see the company’s manufacturing operation and hear about its plans for further innovation and growth.
The Vehicle Group now employs over 70 people at its Colburn site. With around 30 per cent of its workforce are veterans, reservists or members of military families.
Its products are designed and manufactured in Britain and are used by major operators including Royal Mail, Next and Ocado, as well as local businesses. The company also exports its products internationally.
Mr Sunak also heard about the company’s use of 3D printing and rapid prototyping to develop new products, alongside technology designed to improve fuel efficiency and reduce emissions.
Rishi said:
“It was fascinating to see the technology being developed here in Colburn and to meet the people behind the products being designed and manufactured here.
“The Vehicle Group shows what can be achieved when British engineering, manufacturing and innovation come together to solve practical problems. It was particularly encouraging to see the company creating skilled local jobs while developing products for customers here in the UK and around the world.”
Martin Perks, Managing Director at The Vehicle Group, said:
“It was a pleasure to show Rishi our cutting-edge technology and state-of-the-art facility here in Colburn. His enthusiasm for what he saw was a real boost for the whole team as we push forward with new innovations and international growth.
“Rishi’s visit was a great opportunity to demonstrate how our British-made technology delivers on that mission.”
