Jaguar Land Rover's all-electric move welcomed by industry leaders
Jaguar Land Rover's plans for an all-electric future have been welcomed by motor industry figures and academics.
Mike Hawes, the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders' chief executive, said the news that the UK’s largest automotive business had confirmed its long-term commitment to the UK was very welcome and was 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 research and development and skills development. Every effort must be made to create the conditions that will enable the entire sector to flourish," urged Mr Hawes.
Dr Steve McCabe, Associate Professor at the Institute for Design and Economic Acceleration, Birmingham City University, also welcomed Monday's announcement from JLR chief executive officer Thierry Bollore of its new Reimagine strategcy which will see the Jaguar brand all-electric by 2025.
He said that the Midlands must invest in people, research and development to stay at the vanguard of the green revolution in car making.
“Jaguar Land Rover has been somewhat behind the curve on the shift to EV (electric vehicle) production," the professor added.
"Accordingly, JLR’s intention to pivot to making EVs at their Solihull factory will come as good news, especially given rumours at least one facility was due to shut and that the UK, and specifically the Midlands, has too lost many big-name manufacturers in recent years in this region to be complacent.
“The march towards a greener future is inevitable. It is to be hoped that every assistance will be given to component makers in the vital supply chain whose products in their current forms may no longer be required by automotive manufacturers.
“Retraining of Birmingham and Midlands workers with skills for the future, along with ensuring research and development of new products stays in the region, is absolutely essential if the historic home of UK car manufacturing is to be at the vanguard of the ‘green revolution’ in car making, a heritage it’s had for the last century. Though there will be challenges ahead, JLR’s announcement will ensure continuity for the Midlands brand with a world-class reputation.”
