At the SMMT’s International Automotive Summit, Business Secretary Jonathan Reynolds outlined the UK government’s vision for a greener, more resilient automotive industry. Here, Paul Bennett explores how this strategy opens new doors for financiers – from EV leasing innovation to green bonds and supply chain investment – positioning the finance sector as a key driver in the UK’s industrial evolution.
On 24 June I had the privilege of attending the SMMT’s International Automotive Summit in London. The event hosted a number of insightful keynote speakers, one of whom was the Rt Hon Jonathan Reynolds, Secretary of State for Business and Trade who spoke about the UK’s 2025 Industrial Strategy from the perspective of the automotive sector. What follows is my interpretation of the opportunities described in Jonathan’s speech relating to vehicle financing and commercial funding for auto-related manufacturing:
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The UK government’s June 2025 industrial trade strategy marks a pivotal shift towards a sustainable, innovation-driven automotive industry. While much attention is rightly given to manufacturing and technological advancements, the policy’s implications for the automotive finance sector are equally significant, heralding new opportunities and challenges in financing the sector’s transition to electric vehicles (EVs), green technologies and resilient supply chains.
Driving financing innovation in electric mobility
As investment accelerates across EV manufacturing, battery technology, and charging infrastructure, financial institutions are set to play a pivotal role in driving adoption. Meeting the rising demand for EV loans, leasing solutions, and fleet financing will require more than traditional products — it demands innovation. From manufacturers and fleet operators to individual consumers, each stakeholder presents unique needs that reflect the evolving nature of mobility. To remain competitive, banks and financiers must develop flexible, forward-thinking solutions that account for the distinct lifecycle costs, depreciation patterns, and residual values associated with electric vehicles.
Risk assessment and credit models
The shift toward green technologies introduces new risk profiles, requiring financial institutions to adapt their credit assessment models. Understanding the technological, regulatory and market risks associated with emerging automotive technologies will be vital. This presents an opportunity for forward-thinking financiers to develop expertise in assessing innovations, thus reducing perceived risks for consumers and businesses alike.
Supporting green financing and sustainable investments
The government’s emphasis on decarbonisation and clean energy aligns with a broader push toward sustainable finance. There is a growing scope for green bonds, ESG-linked loans and other sustainable investment products targeted at the automotive sector. Financial institutions that position themselves as leaders in green finance could benefit from increased capital allocations, competitive advantage and alignment with government policies.
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By GlobalDataResilient supply chains and financing options
The policy’s focus on strengthening supply chains for critical components like batteries and semiconductors will influence financing strategies for supply chain investments. This includes project finance for establishing local manufacturing facilities, R&D centres and logistical infrastructure – investments that require tailored financial products and government-backed guarantees. The emphasis on regional development also opens avenues regional banking and investment funds to support localised automotive ecosystems.
Regulatory environment and future opportunities
With government support for infrastructure development, skill-building and industry collaborations, there will be a rising demand for financial advisory services, leasing solutions for equipment and innovation funding. Financiers who understand the evolving policy landscape and align their offerings accordingly will be well-positioned to capitalise on these opportunities.
2025 and beyond
The UK’s 2025 automotive industrial strategy is set to reshape the landscape of automotive finance. By fostering innovation, sustainability and resilient supply chains, the policy not only accelerates industry transformation but also presents the finance sector with fertile ground for growth. Financial institutions that embrace these changes through product development, risk assessment adaptation and strategic investment will be key enablers in the UK’s modern automotive journey.
