By: Nicholas Fearn
November 23, 2017
MANBAG OWNER Philip Hammond on Wednesday delivered the government’s Autumn Budget, and while there is a clear focus on Brexit, there are some interesting announcements around technology.
Much of the Chancellor’s announcements centred on emerging technologies that’ll impact our lives over the next few years. In particular, there’s a focus on 5G connectivity, driverless cars and artificial intelligence (AI).
In a bid to promote a greener future for Britain, the Chancellor announced new funds and tax incentives for owners of electric cars. The government will invest £400m to improve charging infrastructure, along with £40m for battery tech research.
The government is also looking to transform research into driverless cars and wants to get the first models on British roads by 2021. Hammond believes that the industry will add £28bn to the British economy by 2035, creating 27,000 jobs.