Cenex, organiser of the annual Low Carbon Vehicle (Cenex-LCV) and Connected Automated Mobility (Cenex-CAM) events, has postponed both events until 18th November 2020 due to the global COVID-19 pandemic. The events were originally planned to take place on 9 and 10 September, and will still be hosted at Millbrook in Bedfordshire.
Robert Evans, CEO of Cenex, said: “We and our supporting partners are committed to the Cenex-LCV and Cenex-CAM events, given their importance for technology showcasing and networking of the UK motor-industry innovation community. Although we are disappointed to have to postpone, we feel this is the most pragmatic approach at this time, given ongoing uncertainties.
“Our decision has been driven by three key considerations. Firstly, we want to ensure the wellbeing and safety of our exhibitors, attendees, speakers and organisational staff. Secondly, we want to allow more time for us and our exhibitors to prepare, based on greater certainty as to how the relaxation of social distancing will enable international events to recommence and operate. Thirdly, international visitors are a key part of the make-up of the Cenex events, and we expect current quarantining arrangements to be lifted between now and November.
“To date, we have been following the official government and healthcare advice, and after extensive discussions with our supporting partners, which comprise government and industry, the new November date was agreed upon. This allows us more time to see how the gradual relaxation of social-distancing measures will progress and to make the necessary logistical arrangements to ensure both events abide by the ‘new normal’ regulations, so we can make it a safe environment for all. Our host, Millbrook, is working with the Association of Event Organisers (AEO) and the UK government to reduce the risks posed by the virus.
“We understand the importance of the events from an industry, academia and community point of view, and if the COVID-19 threat has not reduced by autumn and the public-health risk remains high, we will still host both events on 18 and 19 November. However, in this case it will be done virtually, with the next physical events taking place at Millbrook in September 2021.
“I would like to thank our supporting partners and exhibitors, and the wider Cenex-LCV and Cenex-CAM communities, for their expressions of support and willingness to adapt to the current challenging circumstances. The Cenex event teams are working tirelessly to ensure we can still offer the technology showcasing and networking aspects of the events in a safe and seamless manner, which will make it an enjoyable experience for all. Thank you for your continued patience, understanding and support.”
