The Department for Transport (DfT) Science Advisory Council (SAC) convened to provide an independent perspective on DfT’s near, medium and long-term research and innovation (R&I) requirements for facilitating the delivery of a net-zero-emission transport system by 2050.

Transport decarbonisation is a priority area of focus for the DfT’s Chief Scientific Advisor and, in particular, ensuring that the supply from a future energy system is able to meet the demands of a future decarbonised transport system, while mitigating unintended consequences of fuel choices.

To frame the conversation, the SAC was asked to consider three overarching questions:

1. what are the challenges and opportunities associated with developing different fuels for different modes?
2. what are the potential synergies of fuels across modes and sectors, and what would be the resultant requirement on the energy system if those fuels were adopted?
3. where should government be focussing research and innovation efforts in the near, medium and long term to support decarbonisation of transport by 2050?

The session included contributions and presentations from additional academic and industry experts, and policy officials.

Read the government's position statement on transport research and innovation requirements to support the decarbonisation of transport.