Lotus has pledged a long-term future for its Norfolk factory, reassuring UK Business Secretary Jonathan Reynolds that there are no plans for its closure. This commitment emerged from an urgent Sunday meeting, calming fears that the British sports car manufacturer, owned by Geely, was considering moving its production to the US, a move that would impact 1,300 jobs.
The concern was sparked by a production pause at the Hethel plant in mid-May, attributed to US tariffs and supply chain issues. However, with tariffs due to be significantly reduced, Lotus is preparing to resume manufacturing. A Department for Business and Trade spokesperson confirmed that Reynolds “was reassured by management that they are committed to their UK operations and have no plans to close their Hethel plant.”
Lotus itself has consistently emphasized the UK’s central role in its brand identity. While actively exploring “strategic options to enhance efficiency and ensure global competitiveness,” the company views the Hethel factory, its only UK site, as crucial. This facility produces the Emira sports car and a high-value electric hypercar.
The government has also highlighted its robust support for the wider car sector, including initiatives to lower energy costs for manufacturers and substantial funding for research and development. This collective effort aims to secure and strengthen the UK’s position in global automotive production.