Newbury MP Laura Farris visits repair technology centre, Thatcham Research

Newbury MP Laura Farris paid Thatcham Repair Technology Centre (RTC) a visit to discuss the work it is doing both locally and nationally.

Thatcham Research said it was delighted to host the MP and gave her a tour of its facilities at the RTC and the Automotive Academy last Friday (February 25).

Chief Executive Jonathan Hewett and head of repair sector services Dean Lander talked her through the company’s business plan and some of the work that it is doing in cooperation with the Department for Transport and the Office for Zero Emission Vehicles to address challenges related to future automated, connected and electrified vehicles.

Mrs Farris said: “It was fascinating to visit Thatcham Research and hear more about their expertise on engineering and vehicle safety, including how to make the new generation of cars, hydrogen, electric and driverless, safe for the future.”

After a short walk to the Automotive Academy, the company said it discussed with her how it is translating its cutting-edge electric vehicle research into a series of courses for apprentices and businesses.

This is said to bring new skills and repair techniques into the industry and help it prepare for future challenges.

Mrs Farris also had the chance to watch a demonstration of how Thatcham Research is utilising technology to deliver its “blended” learning experience for apprentices - which will include both physical and digital elements.

Mr Hewett added: “It was a real pleasure to host Laura and brief her on our work supporting the national independent repair sector, our research focused on the safe adoption of automated and connected vehicles and some of the repair challenges associated with battery electric vehicles.”