Businesses developing innovative solutions for the UK’s urban infrastructure, energy and transport challenges have been granted £8 million.

A total of 13 firms will share the funding to scale up and commercialise new technologies and is part of Innovate UK’s two-year pilot loans programme.

Some of the technologies include G-Volution’s dual fuel engines that are said to be cheaper, cleaner and greener, Alert Technology’s portable asbestos detectors and Utonomy’s smart gas grid control expected to increase biomethane injection capacity and reduce leakage by up to 25%.

Funding will also be shared by Lightfoot, which has developed what it calls a ‘fitbit for cars’ that sits on a vehicle’s dashboard, monitors a user’s driving and gives feedback to encourage better, more efficient driving – expected to lead to reduced emissions and improved road safety.

Catagen’s catalyst emissions testing and simulation technology has also been granted part of the funding.

Dr Ian Campbell, Innovate UK’s Executive Chair said: “We’ve seen high levels of demand for this new, affordable, flexible and low interest finance option for innovation and we’re confident it will help potential UK businesses to scale up, create high-value jobs and ultimately accelerate economic growth and improve the quality of life across all regions.”