The Institute of the Motor Industry (IMI) and ITN Productions have teamed-up to launch a news and current affairs-style programme.

Presented by national newsreader Natasha Kaplinsky, ‘Vision for the Future’ looks at the innovations that are pushing the British motor industry forward and brings to life why the British motor industry remains a global leader.

The programme explores the changing way people are buying cars, at the challenges and revolutions within the industry and, the professionalism within the sector and the implications of Brexit.

Steve Nash, chief executive of the IMI, said: “All of us know that the automotive industry is a dynamic, compelling and exciting place to be. What we are keen for people to know about is an industry that is on the cutting edge of technology, and makes vast investments in training and developing its people (well over £100m every year).

“This industry offers a huge array of jobs and career paths, over 150 different roles in a typical retail dealership alone, and this programme demonstrates some of the fantastic work taking place today.”

Premiered on ahead of the IMI Annual Dinner at the InterContinental London, Park Lane, yesterday (March 8th) ‘Vision for the Future’ featured 12 sponsored stories from contributors including Arnold Clark, Barclays, BG Products, Car Care Plan, Dekra, IAM RoadSmart, Jewelultra, Marketing Delivery, Progress Recruitment, SalesMaster, Scania and Skillnet.

The programme also features an interview with Rt Hon John Hayes MP, Minister of State at the Department for Transport, who talks about his support for the Apprenticeship Levy and why it is so vital for the motor industry to reform the training programmes.

Simon Shelley, head of industry news, ITN Productions, said: “We’re delighted to have partnered with the IMI to explore an industry that is on the cutting edge of technology, and at the forefront of training and developing employees.

“The dynamism and professionalism we’ve seen in bringing stories from the industry to screen challenge the perception sometimes held of the industry.

“We hope this can be a tool for the sector to share knowledge and innovative thinking, and bring greater understanding to the automotive industry. “