Boost to UK Motor Industry as JLR Build EVs

JLR are to build electric cars in the UK at its manufacturing branch is Castle Bromwich, making it the UK’s first premium electrified vehicle plant.

The Jaguar XJ will be the first electric car to be produced at the plant.

Prof. Dr. Ralf Speth, Chief Executive Officer of Jaguar Land Rover, said: “Convenience and affordability are the two key enablers to drive the uptake of electric vehicles to the levels that we all need. Charging should be as easy as re-fuelling a conventional vehicle. Affordability will only be achieved if we make batteries here in the UK, close to vehicle production, to avoid the cost and safety risk of importing from abroad. The UK has the raw materials, scientific research in our universities and an existing supplier base to put the UK at the leading edge of mobility and job creation.” 

2 in 5 drivers, an increase of 7.5m drivers in the past 2 years, are considering an EV as their next vehicle according to a report by Close Brothers Motor Finance.

Mike Hawes, SMMT chief executive, said: “Today’s news is a huge boost for the UK motor industry and reaffirms Britain’s potential to become a global leader in zero emission technologies. To realise this, however, we need the right conditions to encourage more manufacturers to invest, innovate and sell competitively, including massive infrastructure investment and long-term support and incentives for consumers.”