Hundreds of jobs could be created in the West Midlands with zero-emission technology advancements creating global export opportunities for Grayson Thermal Systems.
That was the clear message presented to Andy Street, the Mayor of the West Midlands, during a recent visit to the firm’s Tyseley base, with bosses at the 44-year-old firm convinced that the switch to ‘greener’ transport solutions presents a ‘once in a generation’ opportunity for their company and the region as a whole.
Managing Director Stuart Hateley believes the area’s traditional strengths in innovation and R&D are already paving the way for new contracts across the world and wants the Government to get behind this drive by making sure that all publicly funded projects feature initiatives that ensure UK-produced goods are given a boost.
His own company is doing its bit, recently investing £2m in R&D, employee upskilling and state-of-the-art testing technology to help it bring a range of zero-emission vehicle products to market that are now being sold into the battery, electric and hydrogen fuel cell, on-highway, off-highway and rail markets.
These solutions are headlined by its Battery Thermal Management System (BTMS), which keeps zero emission vehicles batteries at a stable temperature improving efficiency and extending life.
There has also been significant interest in its complete Vehicle Thermal Management System (VTMS), MagDrive Pump and Electric Water Heater, the latter providing an instant source of clean heat generation that can be transferred for passenger or driver comfort.
“West Midlands manufacturers have really embraced the electrification drive and are exploring ways where they can take conventional technology and transform it into products that will help OEMs achieve zero emission targets,” commented Stuart, who runs Grayson Thermal Systems with his brothers Ian and James.
“From the beginning of 2021 we have enjoyed significant success in the UK, mainland Europe, North America and even further afield with our new suite of products and this is just the start…the potential is huge, with £million of contracts up for grabs that could create hundreds of jobs here and throughout the supply chain.”
He continued: “It was great to welcome Andy Street to take a look at our technology developments, which have led to our recent successes and discuss ways in which we could work together to ensure that Government-funded projects deliver even more benefit to the local area.
“A lot of the time it is about making the powers that be aware of what we do in the region and the amazing technical expertise and proven technology we have on our doorstep.
“The conversations were very positive and there was a genuine desire from all parties to explore ways where we could accelerate the development of the region’s ‘electric’ supply chain, boosting domestic and international trade in the process.”
Andy Street, Mayor of the West Midlands, added his support: “We have a unique opportunity to lead the UK in electrification and the ‘green economy’ and we’ve already enjoyed several funding successes that will help build a more sustainable transport infrastructure.
“However, I agree that we must explore ways in which we can ensure the full benefit can be felt by local businesses, who have the technology, skills and expertise we require to make these projects a success.
“The visit to Grayson Thermal Systems gave me a first-hand insight into the technology we have at the West Midlands and the opportunities this can bring, both locally and on a global scale.
“I was also able to discuss the challenges faced by our regional manufacturers. It is my responsibility as Mayor of the West Midlands to bring all interested parties together to address some of these issues and, provide support to maximise the opportunities that are undoubtedly out there.”
Birmingham-based Grayson Thermal Systems has bounced back from the pandemic and is enjoying a surge of new projects, contract wins and orders for its zero-emission range of thermal management products.
Group turnover will grow by another 15% in 2022 and more than 40 new jobs have already been created, with further positions now available across engineering, operations and administration.