Kingswinford-based Westfield Technology Group has revealed that it is involved in two projects developing a new driverless electric road sweeper and a revolutionary jet ski.

The company is working with Johnston Sweepers and Fusion Processing to make the UK’s first fully autonomous pure electric road sweeper and with Potenza Technology to create a twin drive all-electric jet ski. Both projects are being funded by the Niche Vehicle Network.

The aim of the sweeper project is to automate the repetitive sweeping process in precincts and pedestrian areas, keeping the environment clean and clear of litter.

Westfield chief executive, Julian Turner, said: “A fully autonomous road sweeper could revolutionise town centre sweeping, improving the environment for residents and businesses, and this is an exciting opportunity to develop the technology for use at airports and on roadwork sites.

"We are delighted to work with these two organisations at the forefront of advancing these pioneering applications.”

On the jet ski project the two businesses aim to improve hydrodynamic efficiency and produce a vehicle which has enhanced safety, lower emissions and decreased noise pollution.

They also aim to apply the technology to other marine vessels, which will further improve energy efficiency, reduce carbon dioxide and other emissions and improve air quality.

Mr Turner added: “We look forward to seeing where this research takes us. The potential to develop the technology to produce electrified vessels that have low audible noise and thermal footprint is huge.”