TRL, in collaboration with the Department for Transport (DfT), is set to host an exclusive in-person event in London on 10th July 2025, showcasing groundbreaking research and transformative projects that are shaping the future of UK transport. The event promises a dynamic exchange of ideas, gathering leading voices from government, academia, and the transport industry to tackle pressing sector challenges and reveal innovative solutions poised to redefine mobility.

Attendees will gain direct insights from both TRL and DfT teams on a variety of cutting-edge initiatives. Highlights include efforts to break down barriers to artificial intelligence adoption in transport, promote greater equality within the driving test system, and share updates on pavement and pothole resilience projects. The programme also promises detailed briefings on the Well Managed Highways Code of Practice and an in-depth look at the Cross Modal Safety Project, which embraces the Safe Systems approach aimed at enhancing transport safety.

The event takes place at the etc venue within County Hall on the South Bank, running from 9:30am to 12:30pm. It will conclude with an informal networking lunch, providing delegates a valuable opportunity to connect with policymakers, researchers, industry professionals, and peers.

This showcase builds on a recent strategic partnership between TRL and the DfT, which established a pioneering grant framework agreement to foster innovation and scientific research in the UK transport sector. This collaborative agreement focuses on advancing sector standards, emerging road technologies, safety improvements, and the broader adoption of innovation. It leverages TRL’s expertise and resources to support the DfT’s mission to integrate scientific knowledge into policymaking and promote sector-wide collaboration.

Founded in 1933 as the Road Research Laboratory and privatised in 1996, TRL is a well-established independent consultancy and research organisation. It is renowned for its commitment to creating clean, safe, and efficient transport solutions that are accessible and reliable for all users. Recently, TRL has embarked on an evolving journey following an investment from Blandford Capital, aimed at accelerating growth and driving advancements in cleaner, safer, and more efficient transport technologies.

This event complements a wider landscape of innovation-focused gatherings in the transport sector throughout 2025. Earlier in the year, the Rail Innovation Exhibition 2025 showcased pioneering rail technology developments with a strong focus on digital transformation and sustainability. Similarly, Mobilise 2025, organised by techUK, brought together tech and public sector leaders to discuss how digital innovations can optimise UK transport networks and support decarbonisation goals, aligning with government ambitions for economic growth through enhanced transport infrastructure. Additionally, the LCRIG Innovation and Learning Festival 2025, scheduled just days prior to the TRL showcase, highlights active collaboration between local authorities and industry partners to advance highways maintenance and transport technology.

In this context, the TRL and DfT Transport Innovation Showcase is positioned as a key event spotlighting both ongoing and emerging projects that leverage scientific research and advanced technology to confront current transport challenges and deliver a more sustainable, inclusive future for UK mobility.

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Source: Noah Wire Services