The Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT) has announced it is backing this year’s Autocar-Courland Next Generation Award aimed at attracting young talent into the automotive industry.

Open to all higher education students, the competition aims to promote careers in the motor industry and showcase UK talent. Entrants must submit a written response to the question: Where do you think the next automotive industry revolution will start and what will it deliver?

Six finalists will be selected to go before a Dragon’s Den-style judging panel to present their ideas to top industry executives. Proposals may focus on technology, politics, production methods, financial incentives, or all of the above, as long as it’s within the scope of the automotive industry.

The winner of the award will be announced at SMMT’s annual dinner on November 24 at the Park Lane Hilton, and will receive one month’s work experience at each of the four partner companies (Ford, Harley Davidson, Honda and Marshall Motor Group) supporting the programme as well as a cash prize.