A British AI-driven company that dramatically speeds up the development of materials used in wind turbines and electric vehicle batteries has won the UK government’s £1 million Manchester Prize.

Polaron, which was spun out from Imperial College London, speeds up the development of advanced materials from years to days.

The government said that while these materials, including metal alloys which reinforce bridges and create batteries for electric vehicles, are “essential” to modern life, developing them has been slow, costly and unpredictable.

Polaron will use the prize to fund further development of its AI solution, which uses microstructural images to analyse and predict how materials will perform.

It claims that this approach helps manufacturers create stronger, lighter and more efficient materials for clean energy, transport and infrastructure.

The Manchester Prize rewards innovative AI solutions addressing major societal challenges, with the first round focused on energy, environment, and infrastructure.

Nearly 300 teams from across the UK competed in its first year, with 10 finalists each receiving £100,000 and support to further develop their innovations.

“AI could generate £400 billion to our economy over the next five years, supporting trailblazing companies like Polaron is essential to achieving that vision,” said secretary of state Peter Kyle. “Our commitment is clear - we are fully embracing AI to drive growth, improve public services and position the UK as a global leader in AI innovation.”

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