Jaguar Land Rover makes £1bn pledge to Britain’s car industry
Jaguar Land Rover (JLR) today promised to invest almost £1bn into building electric cars in Britain, securing thousands of jobs and reinvigorating the struggling auto sector.
The British car manufacturer outlined the plan today as it seeks to offer electric vehicle options for new models from 2020 as it weans itself off its reliance on unpopular diesel engines.
JLR will start with an electric version of of its luxury XJ saloon, building the car at its Castle Bromwich plant, which it will convert into an electric vehicle factory.
“The future of mobility is electric and, as a visionary British company, we are committed to making our next generation of zero-emission vehicles in the UK,” chief executive Ralf Speth said today.
The government hailed the announcement as a “vote of confidence” in the UK’s automotive industry, and said the investment would protect thousands of skilled jobs.
“It reflects our determination for the UK to be at the forefront of the development and manufacturing of the next generation of electric vehicles,” added business secretary Greg Clark.
“JLR’s announcement recognises the strength of the excellent workforce at Castle Bromwich and acknowledges the efforts of many parties, including the government and the Mayor Andy Street, to invest and build a sustainable future in the region for advanced manufacturing, safeguarding jobs and skills.”
Meanwhile the Unite union called JLR’s decision a “trailblazing” move.
Unite assistant general secretary for manufacturing Steve Turner added: “Not only is it a fantastic boost to the UK car industry, but it ensures that JLR’s Castle Bromwich site remains a powerhouse of the regional economy providing a living for thousands of workers and supporting many more in the supply chain.”
More to follow.
Main picture credit: Getty