SMMT to host EV forum
Bosses from some of the UK’s biggest electric vehicle, battery and component manufacturers will gather in Sunderland next month to discuss how best to secure the future of the automotive industry in the North East.
They will be joined by hundreds of local businesses at the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT) Regional Forum at Sunderland’s Stadium of Light.
Recent analysis by SMMT has revealed how the automotive industry has committed £4.1bn to the North East during Britain’s first ‘electric decade’. That represents around a quarter of the total sum invested nationwide by the sector since 2011. At least 7,000 highly-skilled, well paid jobs have been created to produce electric vehicles and technology in the region and these workers helped turn out 47.5% (33,537 units) of all the battery electric vehicles (BEVs) made in the UK last year.
In addition to the recently announced expansion of the existing gigafactory in Sunderland, the area is home to 12 power electronic manufacturers, seven electric motor manufacturers, and is the base for the UK’s next planned gigafactory at Blyth.
Mike Hawes, chief executive, SMMT said: “The North East is an automotive manufacturing hub for the UK, making products that are sought after across the globe while sustaining thousands of well-paid, skilled jobs. The region has seen more investment into electric vehicle and battery production than any other in the UK, highlighting its importance to the sector, the economy and the decarbonisation of road transport.
“But no region can rest on its laurels, so it is important that its competitive advantage is retained and further investment secured not just to create new jobs and growth but to bolster the UK’s shift to net zero.”
