A partnership between Ford’s Bridgend Engine Plant and Cardiff University has won a prestigious Innovation and Impact Award for dramatic cost savings.
The Business Innovation prize, presented by the First Minister of Wales, Carwyn Jones, was awarded to Ford and the Schools of Engineering and Computer Sciences and Informatics for significant savings in time, efficiency and overall costs.
During the past two years, both organisations have addressed technological and operational efficiencies relating to engine production at the Bridgend plant, resulting in improved production processes.
Martin Everitt, Bridgend plant manager, said: “The collaboration has allowed the company to take a more strategic look at solving business issues rather than take a day-to-day, ‘fire-fighting’ approach, which has resulted in long-term gains financially, environmentally and operationally.
“Promoting these innovations across Ford globally will deliver further significant savings to the business, as well as promoting the work of the Bridgend plant.”
Ford has also signed a joint agreement with Cardiff University to explore further projects, having been named as one of 10 universities across the country to offer ‘Blue Oval Scholarships’, which are helping to inspire and support a new generation of engineers, scientists and innovators.
Bridgend Engine Plant is now working with Cardiff University to study and improve its energy use, make savings and reduce its carbon footprint.
