Optare plc has been crowned the winner of SMMT's 2012 Award for Automotive Innovation, for its Optare Versa EV – the UK's first fully operational, full-sized, battery-powered electric bus.

Beating off strong competition from across the car, component and intelligent mobility sectors, the Optare Versa EV scooped SMMT’s annual award, which highlights the importance of R&D and innovation in the industry. Paul Everitt, SMMT Chief Executive and Chair of the judging panel said, “Optare has pioneered the development of the UK’s only full-sized electric bus, reaffirming the sector’s commitment to lowering vehicle emissions while offering fleet operators enhanced efficiency and tangible cost savings. This Award seeks out innovations that have the potential to leave a lasting impact on industry and it's fantastic to have a champion that truly demonstrates why the UK is recognised as a world-leading technological innovator."

Receiving the award on behalf of Optare, CEO Jim Sumner said, "On behalf of all our employees at Optare it gives me immense pride to collect this very prestigious award, which is the culmination of three years hard work by our team. We passionately believe that the future of the bus industry lies in EV and that Optare's demonstrated market leadership will be sustained in the years to come as zero emission technology takes off."

Developed from the 27-seater Optare Solo EV that was launched in 2010, the Versa EV makes use of recent advances in battery technology and the development of fast charging systems. Designed and engineered at Optare’s exclusive UK facility in North Yorkshire, the Versa EV boasts impressive environmental credentials with zero tailpipe emissions and reduced noise and is capable of carrying around 50 passengers.