Exeter MP brings local innovation to Parliament

Exeter MP Steve Race has welcomed a local clean-tech business to Parliament to present its innovation to MPs.

Tribol Braking, an Exeter-based spin-out from the University of Exeter, has developed an ultra-light, corrosion-free brake pad with a 75% lower carbon footprint than traditional alternatives. The firm was invited to give evidence at the House of Commons as part of the Science, Innovation and Technology Select Committee's inquiry into regional innovation and growth.

Tribol’s co-founder Luke Savage presented the company's development story and product demonstration before the Committee began formal questioning of Research England and Innovate UK.

The company’s composite brake pads are the lightest in the world and have been designed to address the increased wear caused by the additional weight of electric vehicles. They are 70% lighter than conventional steel-backed pads, with better insulation and durability.

Tribol was founded through academic research at the University of Exeter and supported by the Innovate UK ICURe programme. The team also received backing from SETsquared Exeter and the Advanced Propulsion Centre.

During the presentation, Mr Savage called for increased investment in Innovate UK and improvements to the application process for innovation funding.

Steve Race MP said: “I was delighted to welcome Luke to talk about Tribol Braking to my colleagues on the Science, Innovation and Technology Select Committee.

Exeter is home to people developing the lightest and most resilient brake pads in the world — based on cutting-edge research and manufactured right here in our city.”

The visit coincided with Chancellor Rachel Reeves' Spending Review announcement, which confirmed £22 billion per year for research and development by the end of the review period. The Chancellor also announced reforms to the Treasury's Green Book, which will change how business cases are assessed to support more place-based innovation.

Mr Race added: “Exeter is a powerhouse of research and innovation, with our University, the Met Office, the Science Park and a growing ecosystem of science and tech businesses.

With the right support, R&D projects like Tribol will become the British businesses of the future — employing thousands of people in high-skill, high-wage jobs.”