JLR commits to UK future

Jaguar Land Rover has committed to keep all three of its British plants open as it strives to make all its models fully electric by 2030.

The company, which plans to be a net zero carbon business by 2039, has confirmed that all three of its UK sites will remain open, although it did say its Castle Bromwich plant in Birmingham would focus on “non production” activities in the future.

JLR is owned by India’s Tata Motors. The Jaguar brand will deliver a complete electric vehicle range by 2025, while Land Rover’s first EV is due to arrive by 2024 and will form the initial step into a six-strong model line-up.

Mike Hawes, SMMT chief executive, said: “The news that the UK’s largest automotive business has confirmed its long-term commitment to the UK is very welcome and is an injection of confidence into the wider sector.

“Its roadmap to a future that is built around sustainability, with electrified and hydrogen models as well as investment in connected and digital technologies, aligns with government ambition and increasing consumer expectations. Delivering this ambition, however, will require the UK to improve its competitiveness. The UK automotive industry is essentially strong, innovative and agile, but the global competition is fierce.

“Government must ensure advanced manufacturing has its full support, with a policy framework and plan for growth that reduces costs, accelerates domestic battery production and electrified supply chains, and incentivises R&D and skills development. Every effort must be made to create the conditions that will enable the entire sector to flourish.”