CAM Pathfinder: Enable

Overview

The CAM Pathfinder: Enable programme supports the UK Connected and Automated Mobility (CAM) sector to accelerate technological capabilities and demonstrate commercially viable CAM services. The competition funds live trials using mature CAM technologies, led by service operators or entities who will directly benefit, with the aim of defining operational models, service delivery, roles and responsibilities, and commercial readiness for future CAM deployment at scale.

Scope

Projects must focus on live trials of CAM services in high-value market segments, demonstrating commercial viability and operational readiness rather than developing new core technologies. Eligible trials include passenger services, freight, last-mile delivery, and other specified deployment domains within the UK. Projects should confirm operational models, business cases, and routes toward future scaling.

Key themes and topics

• Demonstration of mature CAM technologies in live trial settings
• Operational model and service delivery development
• Roles and responsibilities: Authorised Self Driving Entity (ASDE), No-User-in-Charge Operator (NUiCO), and domain owners
• Compliance with regulatory, safety, and insurance standards
• Data collection, handling, and safety case validation
• Commercial readiness for scaled deployment
• Market engagement, customer validation, and supply chain strengthening

Project duration

18–24 months, starting from 1 June 2026 and ending by 31 May 2028

Award value

£2 million–£4 million per project.

Funding rates

• Industrial research: up to 70% for micro/small, 60% for medium, 50% for large organisations
• Experimental development: up to 45% for micro/small, 35% for medium, 25% for large organisations
• Non-economic research organisations can receive up to 100% of eligible costs
• 3.5% industrial contribution payable to Zenzic

Eligibility criteria

• ‍Lead organisations: UK-registered businesses, local authorities, or transport authorities (must directly benefit from CAM deployment)‍
• Collaborators: UK-registered businesses, academic institutions, charities, not-for-profits, public sector organisations, research & technology organisations
• Non-funded partners allowed, including international collaborators
• Subcontractors permitted, including overseas with justification
• Projects must be conducted in the UK and results exploited in the UKAcademic institutions cannot lead projects